And this affected him as the wounding of some strong free creature might, stirring his blood in a fashion new to him and strange.

For not only did he find it piteous; but unseemly, unpermissible somehow, yet marvellously sweet, startling him out of all preconceived light diplomatic plans, plucking shrewdly at his complacently unawakened heart.
He came close to her, and putting his hand under her elbow gently held it.
"Pray, pray be careful," he said.

"I don't trust this crazy little pier of yours one atom.

Any one of these boards looks capable of crumbling and letting one through .-- And, Damaris, please don't be cross with me or I shall be quite miserable.

Forgive my having asked you stupid questions.