He looked at her for a moment with a dreamy smile, then leaped to his feet.
"A man has insulted me--he has been following me about and tried to get into conversation with me." "Dear me," said Septimus.

"What shall I do?
Shall I shoot him ?" "Don't be silly," she said seriously.

"It's serious.

I'd be glad if you'd kindly walk up and down a little with me." "With pleasure." They strolled away together.

"But I _am_ serious.