The text is a short story about two friends, Frank Ashurst and Robert Garton, who are on a tramp after finishing college. They are resting by the road when they see a girl, Megan David, coming down from the common. Ashurst is immediately struck by her beauty and asks her if there is a farm nearby where they can stay the night. Megan agrees to show them the way to her aunt’s farm.

As they approach the farm, they see a stone-built dwelling with animals in the farmyard and an orchard of apple trees. They are greeted by Mrs. Narracombe, Megan’s aunt, who agrees to let them stay for the night. Ashurst asks if there is a stream where they can bathe, and Mrs. Narracombe directs them to a pool in the orchard.

Ashurst waits his turn to bathe and takes in the beauty of the surroundings. He thinks of various things and feels a sense of happiness.

The story portrays the encounter between the two friends and Megan, highlighting Ashurst’s immediate attraction to her. The description of the farm and its surroundings adds to the overall atmosphere of tranquility and natural beauty. The story leaves the reader with a sense of anticipation for what may happen next.