“Hang it!” he demanded tragically, “how can I laugh when I’m in love!”
At that a sudden, irresponsible little peal of laughter parted her lips.
“Oh, dear!” she said, “you are funny! Is it a matter of prayer and fasting, then, this gloomy sentiment which you say you entertain for me? I don’t know whether to be flattered or vexed—you are so funny!” And her laughter rang out again, clear and uncontrolled.
The girl was quite irresistible in her care-free gaiety; her lovely face and delicious laughter no man could utterly withstand, and presently a faint grin became visible on his features.
“Now,” she cried gaily, “you are becoming human and not a Grecian mask or a gargoyle! Remain so, mon ami, if you expect me to wish you good luck in your love—your various affairs——” She blushed as she checked herself. But he said very quickly:
“Will you wish me luck, Thessa, in my various love affairs?”
“How many have you on hand?”
“Exactly one. Do you wish me a sporting chance? Do you, Thessa?”
“Why—yes——”
“Will you wish me good luck in my courtship of you?”