She did not answer, and he felt that he really must kiss her hair, that he could not be responsible if the situation continued much longer.
“Tell me,” he said gently, “and we'll see what I can do.”
“I can't. You will despise me.—Oh, Ned, I am so ashamed!”
He laughed incredulously, and lightly touched her hair with his lips—so lightly that she did not know.
“Dear little one, let us forget all about it, whatever it is. I want to tell you how I love—”
She uttered a sharp cry that was all delight, and then moaned—
“Too late!”
“Too late?” he echoed in surprise.
“Oh, why did I? Why did I?” she was moaning.
He was aware of a swift chill at his heart.