——, that the flower I valued most, I gave to the one I loved best."
"Are you not venturing on forbidden grounds" asked Isabel with glowing cheeks.
"Isabel you are cruel."
"I do not wish to pain you."
"Then accept my flower."
"No, were I to do so, I could only take it to your mother saying that you wished it preserved."
"Would you do so Isabel," he exclaimed reproachfully.
"I should be obliged to do so, if I took it."
"Is it only this one you refuse."
"Or any other equally valuable and scarce."