Page:An orchard princess (IA orchardprincess00barbiala).pdf/80

 any subject under the sun. Please try me."

"Very well, then," she answered, maliciously, "tell me about your work; how you write your novels, where you find the characters, how you think of your plots."

"Do you mean it?" he asked, dejectedly.

"Yes," she replied, firmly.

"Well," he began, hesitatingly. Then there was a silence. Presently she looked up to find his gaze fixed upon her pleadingly. "I'd very much rather not, you know," he said.

"Then you must behave yourself," she answered, severely. "I've only got a very little left to do, and when it is done I shall leave you to the undisputed enjoyment of this spot. Meanwhile, please don't disturb me with any more information about apples.