“I’m not,” said William, indignant at the aspersion. “I’ve never killed no ladies.”
“I mean you’re fond of ladies.”
“I think insects is nicer,” said William dispiritedly.
He was quiet for a minute or two. No one was taking any notice of him. Then he took up his Valentine, which was lying on the floor, and walked out.
******
The Outlaws were in the old barn. They greeted William joyfully. Joan, the only girl member, was there with them. William handed her his cardboard.
“A Valentine,” he said.
“What’s a Valentine?” said Joan who did not attend Miss Lomas’ class.
“Some say it’s a Saint what wrote soppy letters to girls ’stead of gettin’ martyred prop’ly, like Peter an’ the others, an’ some say it’s a bit of fern like this, an’ some say it’s a box of chocolates.”
“Well, I never!” said Joan, surprised, “but it’s beautiful of you to give it to me, William.”