"Yes, if you dare."
She gave him that pure, soul-driven, child's strong look again, exerting all the influence she had ever felt she exercised over him.
Nevertheless he kissed her for the first time:
"To-day, bonito, I dare to kiss thee. Believe me, my kiss is a tender one."
"Yes, sir. There is something like a father in it. Oh, my father, art thou in heaven?"
"If there be such a place, wild-flower, I think he is."
"Oh, thank you, Captain Van Dorn. There may you also be and find the faith I feel in my one day's love on earth. I pray for you every day."
"Ayme, poor weakling! Pray now for thyself: if thou canst save thyself sinless a brief day or two, it may be well for thee and Levin. Thy grandmother is dreadful in her joys this night."
"I can die," said Hulda, "if Levin be saved."
He kissed her again, and something wet dropped down his blushes.