I used to see it
in Maryland."
"Oh, yes," he said, "but it means very little;--quite harmless--mere
practice, like our fencing bouts."
"Did you ever kiss a woman, John--just for practice?" "Why did I say
that!" thought Leila. "Come, sir, confess!"
"Yes," he said, not liking it and far from any conception of the little
mob of motives which betrayed to her a state of mind he had not the
daring to guess. "Did I? That requires courage. Have I--ever kissed a
woman? Yes, often--"
"Oh, I did not ask who."
"Aunt Ann--and a girl once--"
"Indeed!"
"Yes--Leila Grey, aged fifteen--and got my ears boxed. This confession
being at an end, I want absolution." The air was cleared.
"How about the first polka as absolution?" said Leila.
"It is unusual, but as penance it may answer."
"The penance may be mine. I shall know better after the first round, Mr.
Penhallow."
"You are complimentary, Miss Grey," he added, with the whimsical display
of mirth which was more than a smile and not a laugh, and was singularly
attractive.
In place of keeping up the gay game of trifles as shuttle-cocks, Leila
stood still upon the edge of the wood, "I don't think you liked what I
asked."
"What, about kissing? I did not, but upon my honour I answered you
truly." He was grave as he replied.
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