He struck out mightily. Presently the swift Camilla let herself be overtaken.
“Good morning, Miss Purtett.” (Dogged air.)
“Good morning, Mr. Tarbox.” (Taken-by-surprise air.)
“I’ve been admiring your skating,” says Bill, trying to be cool.
“Have you?” rejoins Belle, very cool and distant.
“Have you been long on the ice?” he inquired, hypocritically.
“I came on two hours ago with Mr. Ringdove and the girls,” returned she, with a twinkle which said, “Take that, Sir, for pretending you did not see me.”
“You’ve seen Mr. Wade skate, then,” Bill said, ignoring Ringdove.
“Yes; isn’t it splendid?” Belle replied, kindling.
“Tip-top!”