When he awoke he took another stroll and
came across Malva far from the fishing ground, reading a tattered book
under the shade of the willows.
She looked up at Iakov and smiled.
"Ah, there you are," he said, sitting down beside her.
"Have you been looking for me long?" she asked, demurely.
"Looking for you? What an idea?" replied Iakov, who was only just
beginning to realize that it was the truth.
"Do you know how to read?" she asked.
"Yes--I used to, but I've forgotten everything."
"So have I."
"Why didn't you go to the headland to-day?" asked Iakov, suddenly.
"What's that to you?"
Iakov plucked a leaf and chewed it.
"Listen," he said in a low tone and drawing near her. "Listen to what
I'm going to say. I'm young and I love you."
"You're a silly lad, very silly," said Malva, shaking her head.
"I may be a fool," cried Iakov, passionately. "But I love you, I love
you."
"Be silent! Go away!"
"Why?"
"Because."
"Don't be obstinate." He took her gently by the shoulders. "Can't you
understand?"
"Go away, Iakov," she cried, severely. "Go away!"
"Oh, if that's the tone you take I don't care a rap.
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