"Paddy!" she said, and her voice was very tense.
"Yes?" he answered.
"I've never asked you to do anything for me, have I?" She put her arms round his neck and kissed him. He tried to answer her, but could not because her lips were tightly pressed on his.
"You won't go, will you?" she murmured, closing her eyes and tightening her hold on him.
He struggled a little.... "Why don't you want me to go with Gilbert?" he said.
But she did not answer his question. She drew him back to her again, whispering, "I love you, Paddy, I love you. I don't love any one else but you!"
He threw his arms about her, and they stood there forgetful of everything....
She moved a little, and he led her to the sofa where they sat down together. She laid her head on his shoulder, and he put his arms around her and drew her warm, yielding body close to his. He could feel the beating of her heart....
"You won't go, will you, Paddy?" she whispered.
"No," he answered, bending over her and kissing her.