I keep count, you see," he continued mockingly.

"Or shall I kiss you?
Ay, that may do.
And it will not be against your will, either, for you have that in your hand will save you in an instant.

Even"-- he drew a foot nearer--"now! Even--" And he stooped until his lips almost touched hers.
She sprang back.

"Oh, do not!" she cried.

"Oh, do not!" And, dropping the dagger, she covered her face with her hands, and burst into weeping.
He stooped coolly, and, after groping some time for the poniard, drew it from the leaves among which it had fallen.