But another voice spoke close at hand, fairly startling her, it was so unexpected. "Zoe, what mad prank is this? Let me help you down at once."
"There's no need for you to trouble yourself, I am quite able to get down without assistance, when I'm ready," she replied, putting a strong emphasis upon the last words.
"No; it is too dangerous," and he held up his arms with an imperative, "Come!"
"How you do order me about," she muttered, half under her breath, and more than half inclined to rebel.
But no; the children were looking and listening, and must not be allowed to suspect any unpleasantness between herself and her husband.
She dropped into his arms, he set her upon her feet, drew her hand within his arm, and walked away with her.
"I do not approve of tree-climbing for a married woman, Zoe," he said, when they were out of ear-shot of the children; "at least, not for my wife; and I must request you not to try it again."
"It's a pity I didn't know how much my liberty would be curtailed by getting married," she returned bitterly.
"And I am exceedingly sorry it is out of my power to restore your liberty to you, since it seems that would add to your happiness."
At that she hastily withdrew her hand from his arm and walked quickly away from him, taking the direction of the house.