“Then––” He smiled; released her hand.
“Thank you for—for all you have done,” she said. “I shall not forget.” 134
Something choked him slightly; he forced a laugh:
“Come back a famous painter, Rue. Keep your head clear and your heart full of courage. And let me know how you’re getting on, won’t you?”
“Yes.... Good-bye.”
So he went out, and at the door exchanged adieux with the smiling Princess.
“Do you—like her a little?” he whispered.
“I do, my friend. Also—I like you. I am old enough to say it safely, am I not?”
“If you think so,” he said, a funny little laugh in his eyes, “you are old enough to let me kiss you good-bye.”
But she backed away, still smiling: