"But here--in my arms."
"I don't feel like crying any more now," said Fleda evasively;--at least."--for drops were falling rather fast again,--" not sorrowfully."
"Promise me, Elfie," said Mr. Carleton after a pause.
But Fleda hesitated still and looked dubious.
"Come!--" he said smiling,--"you know you promised a little while ago that you would have a particular regard to my wishes."
Fleda's cheeks answered that appeal with sufficient brightness, but she looked down and said demurely,
"I am sure one of your wishes is that I should not say anything rashly."
"Well?--"
"One cannot answer for such wilful things as tears."
"And for such wilful things as men?" said he smiling.