He was silent a moment, watching her and crushing the heather in his strong fingers. Then, very gently, he laid a hand on her knee.
‘What is it? Tell me. I must know.’
At that she dropped her hands. By chance or design, one of them fell on his own and rested there. The light contact sent electric thrills up his arm.
‘That’s just it,’ she said with her slow smile. ‘You must know. But we neither of us do—yet. It’s been a wonderful fortnight. And if I haven’t travelled quite so fast or so far as you, that doesn’t mean⸺’
‘Of course it doesn’t. I’m not such a conceited ass as to suppose you could fall in love with me at sight. But now I’ve spoken—isn’t there any response?’
‘Haven’t you felt any?’ she asked lightly, and the hand that rested on his moved in a just perceptible caress.
‘For God’s sake don’t play with me!’ he broke out, half angry again. ‘I’m in deadly earnest.’
‘I know. That’s just why one of us must try to keep a cool head.’
‘Nonsense! You’re simply fencing. And you haven’t answered my question.’
‘I’m trying to. But I’m half afraid ... to let myself go. No—don’t!’ She warded him off with a gesture, but deliberately replaced her hand over his. ‘It’s too sudden altogether. Wouldn’t it be wiser—for both of us—to wait a little? You don’t really know me one bit.’