Selina then took leave of her hostess, and in a few minutes found herself on her way home with Mr. Robertson.
"Mr. Robertson," said she, in a hurried voice, "I have something particular to say to you."
"Now it is coming," thought Robertson; "but I will take care not to meet her half way." Then speaking aloud—"It is a fine moonlight evening," said he: "that is probably what you are going to observe."
"You are under a serious mistake," continued Selina.
"I believe not," pursued Robertson, looking up. "The sky is quite clear, and the moon is at the full."
"Nonsense!" exclaimed Selina.
"I am fond of moonlight," persisted Robertson; "and I am extremely flattered at your giving me an opportunity of enjoying it with you." Here he stopped short, fearing that he had said too much.
"My only motive," said Selina, "for accepting your offer of escorting me home, was that I might have an opportunity of explaining to you." Here she paused.
"Take your time, Miss Selina," said Robertson, trying to soften his voice. "I do not wish you to hurry yourself. I can wait very well for the explanation till to-morrow."
"No, you shall not," said Selina; "I must make it at once, for I shall be unable to sleep to-night till I have relieved my mind from it."