She halted on the words as if uncertain how to proceed.
"What is it ?" said Merryon.
And then, quite suddenly, his mood softened.

He leaned slowly forward.
"You needn't be afraid of me," he said.

"I'm not a heady youngster.

I shan't gobble you up." She laughed at that--a quick, nervous laugh.

"And you won't beat me either?
Promise!" He frowned at her.