Didn't I want to take you down just now ?" At this she gives in and laughs a little.

He laughs too.
"You are too clever for me," says she.
"And you--what are you?
Too good for me, perhaps." "I don't think you ought to say things you don't mean," says Tita.
"But as you have made that promise--why, you _may_ take me down now." She leans towards him, holding out her arms.

He takes her into his, and brings her slowly, carefully to the grass beside him.

Even when safely landed here he still holds her.
"We _are_ friends ?" asks he.
His tone is a question.
"Yes, yes, of course," impatiently.

"Are they playing tennis?
Do you think they want me ?" It is impossible for him to misunderstand her meaning.