"You see I've captured him," Miss West called out in rather a high voice, as we came near each other.
"I have no doubt he was a very willing captive," I answered, smiling, and holding out my hand.
I realize now how I hated to give her my hand, and most certainly her manner was not entirely that of a lady.
"We've been for a long walk," she went on, "and now I suppose I ought to let you have him."
"I couldn't think of taking him. I am only going home."
"But it seems real mean to keep him, after I've had him all the afternoon. I must give him to you."
"I hope he wouldn't be so ungallant as to be given, and leave you to go home alone," I said. "That is not the way we treat strangers in Tuskamuck."
"Oh, you mustn't call me a stranger," Miss West responded, twisting her head to look up into George's face. "I'm really in love with the place, and I should admire to live here all the rest of my life."
To this I had nothing to say. George had not spoken a word. I could not look at him, but I moved on now. I felt that I must get away from this girl, with her strange Western speech, and her familiar manner.