It seems logical that Ines, with her skill dealing with animals, should ride with the passive Tom behind her, leading the others to safety, whilst Doctor North and Miss Davenport ride together (propriety not being a primary concern at this juncture.)
As the three steeds and their riders head for shelter, the extraordinary wind follows, as if pursuing them. It pushes hard, directly against the horses, no matter which way they may be turned, as if possessed of intelligence.
Perhaps because it bears an extra burden, the horse bearing Doctor North and Miss Davenport becomes recalcitrant when faced with the wind it cannot escape. The two riders attempt to regain control of the beast.
Through sheer force of will, Doctor North is barely able to force the animal forward. The wind continues to blast away, sending leaves soaring through the air, and even knocking down small trees. The party is able to make its way to Ospringe and find shelter for themselves and the horses at a small inn.
The storm grows stronger. Soon people are knocked down if they dare to leave their houses. Windows -- an expensive luxury! -- are destroyed, and the dust of the street blows everywhere, causing much coughing and blindness.
"The end of the world," remarks the innkeeper gloomily, as a particularly powerful blast of air bashes the door of his establishment wide open, even though it be barred against such.
A whirlwind enters the inn, for all the world as if it were a human being seeking victuals and company. As it swirls in a mad dance, like the fabled Dervishes, small objects in the room are tossed about, causing many of the assembled guests to duck their heads in terror. Even chairs and tables are moved about the room in a chaotic manner, leading to no little injury to those unfortunate enough to be in their way. It blocks the only exit to the inn, those attempting to bypass it being thrown to the ground by its force.
