'You know,' she said, with an odd mixture of gentleness and wilfulness, 'if I marry you, you must always let me do exactly as I please.'
Tebaldo had known her long enough to be past the stage in which she could surprise him. The conception of American life which he had formed from her conversation was somewhat fantastic.
'You would not be so frank if you meant to misuse your liberty,' he answered wisely.
'Do not be so sure!' laughed Miss Lizzie, gaily.
But Tebaldo wanted a more binding reply to his proposal.
'Please do not laugh,' he said. 'Your answer—your consent will transport me to paradise.'
'I hope not,' answered the girl, still laughing a little. 'I prefer you on earth, if I am to marry you.'
'You are adorable!' exclaimed Tebaldo, understanding that he must accept her jesting humour.
'Yes? Am I?' She smiled.
'But you see that I adore you, worship you—love you! Everyone does—'