"I am much better now.

I was very silly.

I do not know what came over me, but for the moment I felt afraid--horribly afraid!--of YOU!" "That was not complimentary to your future husband," I remarked, quietly, as I closed and fastened the window in obedience to her request.

"Should I not insist upon an apology ?" She laughed nervously, and played with her ring of rose-brilliants.
"It is not yet too late," I resumed, "if on second thoughts you would rather not marry me, you have only to say so.

I shall accept my fate with equanimity, and shall not blame you." At this she seemed quite alarmed, and rising, laid her hand pleadingly on my arm.
"Surely you are not offended ?" she said.