Page:The Story of the Gadsbys - Kipling (1888).djvu/58

 —That's nothing. Any one would do that, They cou—couldn't help it.

—Pussy, you'll make me horribly conceited. Just when I was beginning to feel so humble, too.

—Humble! I don't believe it's in your character.

—What do you know of my character, Impertinence?

—Ah, but I shall, shan't I, Phil? I shall have time, in all the years and years to come, to know everything about you; and there will be no secrets between us.

—Little witch! I believe you know me thoroughly already.

—I think I can guess. You're selfish?

—Yes.

—Foolish?

—Very.

—And a dear?

—That is as my lady pleases.

—Then your lady is pleased. (A pause.) D'you know that we're two, solemn, serious, grown-up people

(tilting her straw hat over her eyes).—You grown up! Pooh! You're a baby.

—And we're talking nonsense.

—Then let's go on talking nonsense. I rather like it. Pussy, I'll tell you a secret. Promise not to repeat?

—Ye—es. Only to you.

—I love you.

—Re-ally? For how long?

—For ever and ever.

—That's a long time.

—'Think so? It's the shortest I can do with.

—You're getting quite clever.

—I'm talking to you.

—Prettily turned. Hold up your stupid old head, and I'll pay you for it!

(affecting supreme contempt).—Take it yourself if you want it.