"Tell me so, dear Annie," he repeated; and he tried to regain her hand.
"There is the luncheon-bell; and since Mr. Wilkinson won't go to Mrs. Price, I must do so."
"Shall I go?" said he.
"Do; I will go down by myself."
"But you love me, Annie?—say that you love me."
"Nonsense. Here is that fellow, Biffin. Do you go for Mrs. Price—leave me to myself."
"Don't go down stairs with him."
"You may be sure I won't—nor with you either this morning. I am half inclined to be angry with you." And so saying, she moved away.
"Ah, me! what have I done!" said Bertram to himself, as he went upon his mission. "But she is a sweet creature; as beautiful as Hebe; and why should I be wretched for ever?"
She had moved towards the companion-ladder, and as she did so, Major Biffin followed her.