"What are you waiting for, my little angel?
It is time to love when one is young and the world is green, and your eyes are bright, carina! When the heart beats and the blood is warm! And you are made for love--that mouth of yours--like the red carnations--one kiss Teresinella--that is all I ask--one kiss and no more,--here in the shade while no one is looking--one kiss, carina mia--there is no sin in kissing--" And he tried to draw her to him.

But either Teresina was naturally a very good girl, or her good angel had demolished his evil adversary in the encounter which had taken place.

There is an odd sort of fierce loyalty very often to be found at the root of the Sicilian character.
She looked up suddenly and her eyes met his.

She held out the little package still unopened.
"You have made a mistake, Signor Conte," she said, quietly enough.

"I am an honest girl, and though you are a great signore I will tell you that if you had any honour you would not be making love to me out here in the garden while you are paying court to the Signorina when you are in the house, and doing your best to marry her.