"No, it ain't," he answered, still in his high mood.
He gripped it firmly. Her cool hand was in his.
Then she trusted her whole weight to him.
He felt his strength tried and answering to the test; and rejoiced in it. So did she.
For a moment he balanced her, lifted her even, let her feel the power of his manhood. Then he lowered her swiftly.
It was well, even gracefully done.
Neither spoke; Ernie took his roses from the feet of the driver, who looked down with approval.
"Go on!" he said sturdily. "That's the way!"
The motor-bus that was to take them back to the hotel was turning in the open space before the public-house.
Without a word they climbed on to the top.