Bell-Bell nodded gravely.

“And I let him!”

The happy young wife pushed her toward the door.

“Yes—yes, dear, I know. We cannot help some things.”

“But—I wished him.”

“Is it possible?”

“Bell-Bell, I tempted him! I made my lips so—so! I think I pulled him down!”

“Good heavens! What wickedness!”

“Yes! Now—does thee think I had better let him say good-by—forever and ever?”

“Yes,” said Bell-Bell, with judicial airs, “if you are sure it is forever and ever. Fear not. I will wait right here—inside the door. And if I hear a sound, I’ll be on him like a lion. But only a minute for the brute. Mind!” She turned and bit her lips to keep them in order.