"Barbara, I have loved you from the first moment of seeing you."
Barbara could not truthfully say that her love had begun so early. The knowledge of it had come upon her perhaps a month ago.
"I wish I had known it. A month ago!" he added ruefully. "Just think of the kisses I have missed!"
"Nothing prevents you, Paul, from repairing lost opportunities."
Who could have resisted the witchery of those lips raised so temptingly at that moment? Not Paul, certainly.
The dusk of twilight was stealing over the island. The stars were beginning to glimmer through the violet air above.
"It is time to return," said Paul, leading Barbara towards the boat.
"The mantilla!" she exclaimed, suddenly stopping short in her walk. "I left it in the ruins. I must go back for it, since it is Jacintha's. And my diamond brooch is fastened to it."
"You are tired, Barbara. Remain here. I will fetch it."