I think I tried to speak twice without making myself distinctly audible.

At last I got out the question,--Will you take the long path with me?
-- Certainly,--said the schoolmistress,--with much pleasure .-- Think, -- I said,--before you answer; if you take the long path with me now, I shall interpret it that we are to part no more!--The schoolmistress stepped back with a sudden movement, as if an arrow had struck her.
One of the long granite blocks used as seats was hard by,--the one you may still see close by the Gingko-tree .-- Pray, sit down,--I said .-- No, no, she answered, softly,--I will walk the LONG PATH with you! -- The old gentleman who sits opposite met us walking, arm in arm, about the middle of the long path, and said, very charmingly, -- "Good morning, my dears!".