A few minutes before noon
Their black habiliments and lowered voices alone marked the difference between it and a hunting-breakfast . And indeed this morning Squire Willyams , who had taken over the hounds after Squire Moyle 's death , had given secret orders to his huntsmen ; and the pack was waiting at Three-barrow Turnpike , a couple of miles inland from Carwithiel . At half-past ten the mourners drained their glasses , shook the crumbs off their riding-breeches , and took leave ; and after halting outside Carwithiel gates to unpin and pocket their hat-bands , headed for the meet with one accord . A few minutes before noon Squire Willyams , seated on his grey by the edge of Three-barrow Brake , and listening to every sound within the covert , happened to glance an eye across the valley , and let out a low whistle . `` Well ! '' said one of a near group of horsemen catching sight of the rider pricking toward them down the farther slope , `` I knew en for unbeliever ; but this beats all ! '' `` And his awnly son not three hours under the mould !