Page:The Tsar's Window.djvu/91

 We walked on, and the maid fell behind.

"Really," said George, recovering his usual manner with a slight effort, "I should think you might have discovered some pleasanter place for a walk."

"Yes, I think I might," I responded, with a faint attempt at a laugh; "but I did not notice where I was going, and I found myself here at last."

He frowned, and bit his lip.

"You must have been absorbed in some pleasant thought."

"Pardon me," I interrupted; "it was very unpleasant."

"At least, it was absorbing?"

"Yes, I grant that. I was thinking of myself."

"I fancied you never did that" (in a tone which said that he never had paid much attention to the subject).

"I never do, when I have anything else to occupy my mind," I answered, as carelessly as he had spoken.

"Surely you don't complain of lack of amusement?"

"No,—I am not complaining; I am only answering your questions."

He smiled, and we walked on in silence for some time.

"Are you going to walk home with me?" I asked, at last.

"If you allow me."

"Then, can you call a sledge for my maid? She is not accustomed to such long tramps, and I fear she will be utterly exhausted when we reach home."