"But you were so young--last year you were but a child, and I was ashamed of myself for what I said to you the night of the music ride--it isn't right to speak words of love to a girl who is not yet a woman.

Will you forgive me ?" Anita's forgiveness shone in her eyes and smiled upon her scarlet mouth when Broussard laid his lips on hers.
Suddenly, a wild shriek resounded.

The After-Clap, who had been in hiding behind Anita, and was unseen by Broussard, and forgotten by Anita, emerged and set up a violent protest.

Being now a sturdy three-year-old, he was well able to express himself.
"You go 'way!" screamed the After-Clap, raising a copper-toed foot, and kicking Broussard's shins.
"You let my 'Nita 'lone, you bad man!" The After-Clap's shrieks brought the chaplain and Kettle and a couple of soldiers quickly out of the chapel.

Meanwhile, with what Broussard thought superhuman and intelligent malice, the After-Clap dragged the iron gate open that led to the plaza, and rushed straight into the arms of Colonel Fortescue, returning from his first walk, aided by a stick in one hand and Mrs.Fortescue's arm on the other side.
"Daddy! Daddy! You come here and beat Mr.Broussard.