"Come," he says, "I will sit with you, and talk with you, when, and where, and for as long as you like. The longer the greater bliss for me. The spaciousness of these halls, fair madam, as doubtless you have perceived, gives wide scope for choice of seats. In which secluded bower will it please you to efface yourself?"
Monica glances from one small room to the landing-place, and from the landing-place to the other small room beyond, and naturally hesitates.
"There is another stairs besides the one we ascended," says Mr. Kelly. "I saw it when first I came: would you like to see it too?"
"I should indeed," says Monica, grateful for the hint, and, going with him, suddenly becomes aware of a staircase, leading goodness knows whither, upon the third step of which she seats herself, after a rapid glance around and upwards that tells her nothing, so mysterious are the workings of a barracks.
Mr. Kelly seats himself beside her.
"I suppose it is my mission to amuse you," he says, calmly, "as I dare not make love to you."
"Why not?" says Monica, quite as calmly.
"For one thing, you would not listen to me; and for another, I don't want my head broken."
Monica smiles, more because it is her duty to than for any other reason, because after the smile comes a sigh.
"I know few knights would tilt a lance for me," she says; and Kelly, glancing at her, feels a quick desire rise within him to restore sunshine to her perfect face.