Madcap Moll tossed her curls. "Ask me!" she cried derisively.
"I am asking you," replied the King.
"Odds fudge—you have spindleshanks!" cried Madcap Moll irrelevantly. The King was charmed. He leant towards her.
"One kiss, mistress!" he implored. At that she slapped his face and made his nose bleed. He was captivated.
"I'faith, art a daring girl," he cried delightedly. "Knowest who I am?"
"I care not!" replied the girl.
"George the First!" said the King, rising. Madcap Moll blanched.
"Sire," she murmured, "I did not know—a poor, unwitting country lass—have mercy!"
The King touched her lightly on the nape.
"Get up," he said gently; "you are as loyal and spirited a girl as one could meet in all Hampshire, I'll warrant. Hast a liking for Court?"