The Duchess’s countenance glowed with delight, despite herself.
“I’faith, was there a temptation?” she asked, quite mollified.
“An overwhelming passion,” cried Nell, following up her advantage.
“And you were disappointed, sir?” asked Portsmouth suggestively, her vanity falling captive to the sweet cajolery.
“I only got yon courtier’s kiss,” saucily pouted Nell, “so lately bestowed on you.”
“Do you know whose kiss that was?” inquired the Duchess.
“It seemed familiar,” answered Nell, dryly.
“The King’s,” said Portsmouth, proudly.
“The King’s!” cried Nell, opening wide her eyes. “Take back your kiss. I would not have it.”
“Indeed!” said Portsmouth, smiling.