"And I am jealous of every other man who comes near you." I saw that my remark had offended her, so I continued earnestly: "I meant it, Betty; I meant it.

I was not jesting." Betty sighed, looked quickly up to me, half in doubt, half in inquiry, and was about to speak, but closed her lips on her words and leaned forward, her head drooping eloquently.

Her gentleness, her sweetness, and her beauty were so tempting that I could not resist their charm.

Again I caught her hand, and it trembled in mine as she tried faintly to withdraw it.

I tried to check myself but failed, and I put my arm about her waist.
Then, after a mighty effort to stay my words, I said pleadingly:-- "Ah, Betty, I love you.