She was silent at first at the unexpected question, then answered hurriedly:
"No, of course not, how can you think of such a thing? What was I to give? Besides, he would not accept anything."
"I am surprised at that, for he has since then applied to me for a reward."
"Impossible!" said Veronica, casting a side-glance at Gyuri. Strange doubts had arisen in her mind, and her heart began to beat.
"And what does he ask for?" she asked in a low voice.
"He wants a good deal. He asks for the earring he found, and with it its owner. And I have promised him both!"
Veronica bent her head; her face was suffused with burning blushes, her bosom heaved.
"Well? Do you give no answer? Did I do right to promise, Veronica?"
Gyuri took a step toward her, and said, in a low, pleading voice:
"Only one word, Miss Veronica!" then stood back under the shade of the pear-tree.