“‘“Don’t call me Mr. Wallingford, I beseech you; speaking of coldness, that makes me shiver.”
“‘“It is a poor rule that won’t work both ways; you made it, and should not now complain of my adopting it.”
“‘“The retort is just, and I have no right to complain; but we are both getting to be quite formal of late; nevertheless, I may be permitted to think and speak of your great beauty, I hope, without offending you.”
“‘“Oh, no offense, I assure you, Mr. Wallingford—I am used to flattery, and it does not make me vain at all.”
“‘“No doubt you are often annoyed with compliments, but I was only speaking the honest truth when I said I thought you were the most beautiful creature I ever saw.”
“‘“Indeed, I am much gratified to know that you don’t think me ugly. I never saw but one gentleman whom I thought was extra handsome; but, alas! he has a heart as cold as an iceberg, and is too proud to be happy.”
‘“I knew in an instant to whom she alluded, and I felt my heart begin to melt at once.
“‘“May I know the name of this wonderful paragon?’ I inquired, as I gazed eagerly into her expressive eyes.
“‘“Oh, never mind his name—he is a particular friend of mine, anyway.”
“‘“Is he nothing more than a friend, Miss Bramlett?”