It would be our secret, our little experiment.

If only you'd try it.

Dearest, I do love you so deeply.' And then--how it was she did not know, but it was again Franklin's words rather than Franklin that moved her, so that he must have seen the yielding to his love, if not to him, in her face--she was in his arms, and he was kissing her and saying, 'O Althea, won't you try ?' Althea's mind whirled.

She needed to be kissed; that alone was evident; for she did not draw away; but the tears came, of perplexity and pathos, and she said, 'Franklin, dear Franklin, I'll try--I mean, I'll try to be in love with you--I can't be engaged, not really engaged--but I will try.' 'Darling--you are nearer it----' 'Yes--I don't know, Franklin--I mustn't bind myself.

I can't marry you unless I am in love with you--can I, Franklin ?' 'Well, I don't know about that,' said Franklin, his voice a little shaken.