But, in spite of her arch delight, she was on the alert, for she retreated deftly and featly within the chamber door of the Fair Maid of Galloway.

There was still more mirthful wickedness in her eyes.
"Love the Earl ?--Of course I do.

Indeed, I doat upon him," she said.
"How I shall love this buckle, just because his hand gave it to you!" And with that she shut to the door.
Sholto, in act to advance, stood a moment poised on one foot like a goose.

Then with a heart blazing with anger, and one of the first oaths that had ever passed his lips, he turned on his heel and strode away.
"I will never think of her again--I will never see her.

I will go to France and perish in battle.