"
"Are you quite sure there can be flirtation without sentiment?" she
persisted.
"It's the only artistic sort; and the only safe sort, too," I answered
sagely.
"And is it a pleasant game to play for a while in that fashion?" she
asked.
"Doubtless," I answered evasively; "only it is rarely done."
She went back to the roses again. "I think, cousin, I shall flirt with
you," she said suddenly.
I took a fresh hold on the railing. I was surprised.
But I was more troubled; for I was quite sure she meant it.
"Don't you think, Princess, you are putting me to a heavy test?" I
objected. "I may cease to be artistic."
"You said it could be done."
"Yes, as a general----"
"Then your test is no heavier than mine," she interrupted.
I bowed. So, this was her punishment for the kiss of salutation.
"But if I were to fail to carry the game through properly?" I said.
She hesitated. "I may fail, too," she said.
"And then?" I asked.
She looked away. "It would make no difference in the ending. You
would go away; and I--would make some crazy marriage of political
expediency."
I straightened up. Maybe she had not been maliciously leading me out.
Maybe she was simply unhappy and wanting a new sensation.
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