I am going directly home, too; and we will walk down together.

Unless, of course, you are in a hurry." I think it was the expression of my face which led her to add the last sentence.

If I had had time to think, to summon my resolution, it is possible--yes, it is possible that I should have declared myself to be in a hurry and gone on alone.

But she had caught me unawares and resolution was wanting.

I announced that I was in no hurry at all, and took the parcel.
We walked on together, she chatting easily, and I pretending to listen, although aware that our progress was watched by eager eyes and commented upon and exclaimed over by many tongues.