She
rather enjoyed it.
She finished with one of Burns's lyrics; and then told Arthur that it was
now his turn, and that she would play for him. He shook his head,
pleading that he was out of practice.
"I wish it," she said, speaking low. And it pleased her that he made no
answer but to ask her what he should sing. He had a light tenor voice.
It was wobbly at first, but improved as he went on. They ended with a
duet.
The next morning she went into town with them. She never seemed to have
any time in London, and wanted to do some shopping. They joined her
again for lunch and afterwards, at her father's suggestion, she and
Arthur went for a walk. They took the tram out of the city and struck
into the country. The leaves still lingered brown and red upon the
trees. He carried her cloak and opened gates for her and held back
brambles while she passed. She had always been indifferent to these
small gallantries; but to-day she welcomed them. She wished to feel her
power to attract and command. They avoided all subjects on which they
could differ, even in words.
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