Alan paused for a second, irresolute. "Herminia," he said at last,
leaning forward till his face was very close to hers, and he could
feel the warm breath that came and went so quickly; "that's very,
very kind of you. I needn't tell you I've been thinking a great
deal about you these last three weeks or so. You have filled my
mind; filled it to the brim, and I think you know it."

Philosopher as she was, Herminia plucked a blade of grass, and drew
it quivering through her tremulous fingers. It caught and
hesitated. "I guessed as much, I think," she answered, low but
frankly.

The young man's heart gave a bound. "And YOU, Herminia?" he asked,
in an eager ecstasy.

Herminia was true to the Truth. "I've thought a great deal about
you too, Mr. Merrick," she answered, looking down, but with a great
gladness thrilling her.

"I said 'Herminia,'" the young man repeated, with a marked stress
on the Christian name.

Herminia hesitated a second. Then two crimson spots flared forth
on her speaking face, as she answered with an effort, "About you
too, Alan."

The young man drew back and gazed at her.

She was very, very beautiful. "Dare I ask you, Herminia?" he cried.
"Have I a right to ask you? Am I worthy of you, I mean? Ought I to