chipcom - all decisions we make are based upon unverified assumptions concerning the behavior of others. It's just a matter of degree.
Subdermis - I've been thinking this, too. It sounded gruff, and her face was contorted - but that could easily have been from exerting herself on the other side of the hill. And what I interpreted as anger in her initial call could have been anxiety at realizing the situation as she crested the hill.
Anyway, thanks for the input.