"Then," said the Duckling, "you wouldn't think that anyone so awfully ugly as I am would have a little sweetheart."
"My dear fellow," said Sidney soothingly, "I'll tell you the truth. As to beauty you are not an Adonis, but your manner is so good-natured and pleasant and humorsome and all that, one never thinks about your features. Besides, as a rule girls hate pretty faces on men; that is, sensible girls do."
"Well, but my sweetheart is only a child."
"Tell me."
The Ugly Duckling did, from the beginning of the story down to the parting and the promised engagement-ring.
Sidney was much interested.
Then getting up he said quietly, "I'll be back in a minute."
He drew aside, the curtain and disappeared. Down to his big sea-chest in the cockpit he dived, and soon returned singing low to himself, with his jewel-case in one hand. He placed it on the table, and opened his show of sparkling gems.
"Give me that bit of cardboard," he said, "with the size of Natina's finger in it. Ah!" he cried jubilantly a moment after, "this one will just fit. A trifle large, but her sweet wee finger will grow to it. See how it sparkles! Isn't it just too awfully lovely for anything?"
"But, dear Wickens, I—I—"