"Ah, you blame me, and I have no excuses to offer!"
"Mine was the fault," she spoke so low that he must bend closer to hear. "I should never have written to you."
Her skirt had fluttered back on a bough; he stooped and loosened it.
"Walk along here with me, Selina."
"Let me return. You should not have spoken to me. I am unnerved to-night."
He laughed.
"I should like to take you on the lake—away from these people. Could we find a boat?"
"My lord, I entreat you, let me return. I—I shall not be able to hold my head up!" she answered desperately and weakly.
"Do I prevent your return?" he smiled. "I am not detaining you, Selina."