She made no answer.
"If we're not," he went on, "I intend to duck you in the water. If we are, you shall tell me you love me and go free."
"Don't be idiotic, Hortie. Please, please let me go. Somebody may come along and see us."
"I don't mind if they do. There are other considerations more important."
A swift, shy smile illuminated her face.
"I—I—don't want to be ducked, Hortie," she murmured, raising her arms to his neck.
"You precious thing! You shan't be. Now the rest of it. Say you love me."
"I guess you know that."
"But I wish to hear you say it."
"I—I—think I do."