Part 2 What Occurred in Glencaid Chapter 7 An Unusual Girl

"Oh, indeed; you cause me to blush already. My frankness, I fear, bids
fair to cost me all my friends, and I may even go beyond your pardon,
if the perverse spirit of my nature so move me."

"The risk of such a catastrophe is mine, and I would gladly dare that
much to get away from conventional commonplace. One advantage of such
meetings as ours is an immediate insight into each other's deeper
nature. For one I shall sincerely rejoice if you will permit the good
fortune of our chance meeting to be alone sponsor for our future
friendship. Will you not say yes?"

She looked at him with greater earnestness, her young face sobered by
the words spoken. Whatever else she may have seen revealed there, the
countenance bending slightly toward her was a serious, manly one,
inspiring respect, awakening confidence.

"And I do agree," she said, extending her hand in a girlish impulse.
"It will, at least, be a new experience and therefore worth the trial.
I will even endeavor to restrain my rebellious spirit, so that you will
not be unduly shocked."

He laughed, now placed entirely at his ease. "Your need of mercy is
appreciated, fair lady. Is it your desire to return to the hall?"

She shook her head positively. "A cheap, gaudy show, all bluster and
vulgarity. Even the dancing is a mere parody. I early tired of it."