"O Diana," I murmured, "how wonderful you are!"
"Last time we met you called me—wanton!" she whispered.
"I was mad!" cried I remorsefully. "And yet—"
"And yet—you meant it, dear Peregrine! And tonight I am here upon your heart—oh, wonderful—kiss your wanton again—"
"Ah—hush!" I pleaded. "Don't—don't say it."
"Ah, Peregrine, beloved—don't think it!"
"But Diana," I groaned, "oh, my Diana, I saw you with—"
"Hush!" she whispered suddenly. "There is somebody moving down below—listen!"
From the pitchy gloom beneath came a heavy tread and a deep, long-drawn sigh; but even so I knew a happiness beyond all expression to feel how she nestled closer into my embrace as if seeking protection there.
"Are you afraid, my Diana?"