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[Smiling.] No, only to hold.

Did you?

Yes. [Tearing off a few petals.] Then he caressed my hand and asked would I let him kiss it. I let him.

Well?

Then he asked could he embrace me—even once? And then

And then?

He put his arm round me.

[Stares at the floor for a moment, then looks at her again.] And then?

He said I had beautiful eyes. And asked could he kiss them. [With a gesture.] I said: Do so.

And he did?

Yes. First one and then the other. [She breaks off suddenly.] Tell me, Dick, does all this disturb you? Because I told you I don't want that. I think you are only pretending you don't mind. I don't mind.

[Quietly!] I know, dear. But I want to find out what he means or feels just as you do.