"Well, indeed, Gethin!" she exclaimed, "I wasn't expecting to see you here so far from Garthowen."
"No; nor I, lass," said Gethin, taking her hand, and continuing to hold it. "I was so surprised to see thee out alone to-night; it gave me a start. I was not expecting to see thee."
"No, of course," said Morva, "and I wouldn't be here, only I was afraid
I had not fastened the new calf up safely and—and—"
And they looked at each other and laughed.
"Well, now, 'tis no use telling stories about it," said Gethin; "I will confess, Morva, I came here to look for thee; but I can't expect thee to say the same—or didst expect to see me, too, lass? Say yes, now, da chi!" [1]
Morva hung her head, but answered mischievously:
"Well, if I did, I won't tell tales about myself, whatever; but, indeed, I mustn't stop long. Mother will be waiting for me."
"She will guess where thou art, and I cannot let thee go, lass. Dost remember the last time we were here?"
"Yes—yes, I remember."
"Dost remember I told thee what I would say if I were Will? Wilt listen to me now, lass, though I am only Gethin?"