Miss Dane sunk down under a large orange-tree and began fanning herself languidly.
"How nice—this half light, these perfumed roses, those tinkling water-falls, music, and solitude! Do I look like Love among the Roses, Doctor Oleander?"
"Yes; like Love, like Venus, like everything that is bright, and beautiful, and irresistible, Miss Dane!"
"Monsieur overwhelms me! Why, good gracious, sir! What do you mean?"
For Dr. Oleander had actually caught her in his arms and was pouring forth a passionate declaration of love.
"Goodness me! Release me instantly! How dare you, sir? Have you taken leave of your senses, Doctor Oleander?"
"I am mad for love of you, beautiful Mollie! I adore you with my whole heart!"
"Do you, indeed?" said Mollie, looking angrily at her ruffled plumage. "See my dress—not fit to be seen! I'm surprised at you, Doctor Oleander!"
"Mollie, I love you!"
"I don't care—that's no reason why you should spoil my lovely dress, and make me a perfect fright. You had no business going on in that outrageous manner, sir!"