Take it all in all, you are even interesting, and--I admit--I am inclined to like you." The tantalizing tone and manner nerved him; he grasped the white hand resting invitingly on the grass, and held it firmly within his own.
"You only make sport as you did once before.

I must have the whole truth." "Oh, no; to make sport at such a time would be sheerest mockery, and I would never dare to be so free.

Why, remember we are scarcely more than strangers.

How rude you are! only our third time of meeting, and you will not release my hand." "Not unless I must, Naida," and the deep ringing soberness of his voice startled the girl into suddenly uplifting her eyes to his face.

What she read there instantly changed her mood from playfulness to earnest gravity.
"Oh, please do not--do not say what you are tempted to," her voice almost pleading.