"I am not frightened," she said, with an effort. "It's only that--just
at first--till I get used to it--it feels rather strange."
There was unconscious pleading in her voice. He took his hand from her
shoulder, looking at her with his queer, speculative smile.
"I don't want to hustle you any," he said. "But if that's all the
trouble, I guess I know a remedy."
Violet drew back sharply.
"Oh, no!" she said. "No!"
She was terrified for the moment lest he should desire to put his remedy
to the test. But he made no movement in her direction, and another sort
of misgiving assailed her.
"Don't be vexed," she said unsteadily. "I--I know I'm despicable. But I
shall get over it--if you will give me time."
"Bless your heart, I'm not vexed," said Kenyon. "I'm only wondering,
don't you know, how you brought yourself to say 'Yes' to me. But no
matter, dear. I'm grateful all the same."
He held out his hand to her, and she laid hers nervously within it. She
could not meet his eyes any longer.
Kenyon stooped and put his lips to her cold fingers.
"Jove!" he said softly. "I'm in luck to-day."
And after that he sat down again, and began to behave like an ordinary
visitor.
III
"Great Scotland!" said Jerry.
He looked up from a letter, and gazed at his sister with starting eyes.
"Oh, what?" she exclaimed in alarm.
He sprang up impetuously, and went round the table to her.
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