"She was quite close to me. I had only to hold out my arms for her to come and rest against my heart, with her head on my shoulder.
"'Anne—'
"'Let us say no more. I am so ashamed of myself—'
"I felt her all a-quiver. How long did we remain so? Those wonderful moments had a greater weight—the weight of years. The April evening was prolonging its light, its invitation of Spring. Our love made us tremble together. When she gained control of herself she lifted her bowed head and smiled like a young, cajoling girl:
"'You did not bring the mistletoe?'
"I touched her burning cheek. I wished to touch her lips, to possess that which had betrayed her secret. She did not permit me. With a quick movement she tore herself away from me.
"'No, no,' she murmured, frightened, 'our love must suffice.'
"'It is my first kiss.'
"Surprised, I repeated. 'The first?'
"She blushed delightfully.