What do you call that tree there ?' "'It is a tulip-tree,' said I, coldly.
"'Then, to put your gallantry to the test, do climb up there and pluck me that flower.

No, the far one.

If you fall into the lake and are drowned, why it would put an end to this foolish interview.' "'And if not ?' said I.
"'Oh, then I shall take twelve hours to consider of it; and if my decision be in your favor, I'll give you the flower ere you leave to-morrow.' "It's somewhat about thirty years since I went bird-nesting, and hang me, if a tight jacket and spurs are the best equipment for climbing a tree; but up I went, and, amidst a running fire of laughter and quizzing, reached the branch and brought it down safely.
"Inez took especial care to avoid me the rest of the evening.

We did not meet until breakfast the following morning.

I perceived then that she wore the flower in her belt; but, alas! I knew her too well to augur favorably from that; besides that, instead of any trace of sorrow or depression at my approaching departure, she was in high spirits, and the life of the party.
'How can I manage to speak with her ?' said I to myself.