“Sounds as if she’d come clear,” said Mellors.

But Clifford had already jerked her into gear. She gave a sick lurch and ebbed weakly forwards.

“If I give her a push, she’ll do it,” said the keeper, going behind.

“Keep off!” snapped Clifford. “She’ll do it by herself.”

“But Clifford!” put in Connie from the bank, “you know it’s too much for her. Why are you so obstinate!”

Clifford was pale with anger. He jabbed at his levers. The chair gave a sort of scurry, reeled on a few more yards, and came to her end amid a particularly promising patch of bluebells.

“She’s done!” said the keeper. “Not power enough.”

“She’s been up here before,” said Clifford coldly.

“She won’t do it this time,” said the keeper.