It was an unusual caprice in one whose nature was so childlike and playful; but the recent knowledge that she was a slave had made her, for the first time, jealous of her dignity.

She took it into her head that he knew the humiliating fact, and presumed upon it.
But the good lad was as yet unconscious of this new trouble, and the unexpected rebuke greatly surprised him.

Though her slight figure and juvenile face made her attempt at majesty somewhat comic, it was quite sufficient to intimidate the bashful youth; and he answered, very meekly: "Pardon me, Miss Royal.

Floracita is such a very pretty name, and I have always liked it so much, that I spoke it before I thought." The compliment disarmed her at once; and with one of her winning smiles, and a quick little courtesy, she said: "Do you think it's a pretty name?
You _may_ call me Floracita, if you like it so much." "I think it is the prettiest name in the world," replied he.

"I used to like to hear your mother say it.