Into an ordinary boy such an insult would have burned like acid. But Philip merely said to himself thoughtfully, as he walked away:—
"I wonder if I am shy?"
Then presently he decided:—
"No, I'm not: I can't be, because I wanted to stay and talk to her!"
He walked on a few yards, and then paused again. Boy nature, long dormant, was struggling vigorously to the surface.
"I won't be called shy!" he said to himself hotly.
He turned and walked quickly back.
The little girl was still sitting on the gate, studiously admiring the sunset. Once more Philip stood before her.
"I say," he said nervously, "I'm not shy."
The little girl looked down languidly.