All in a garden fair; the simple story of three boys ... - University Library

ALL AV A GARDEN FAIR. 165
it. I take none—I hate it ! Why,
if I were
to tell the fellows in the office about my— my
verses they would think it the best joke they
had ever heard.'
' Patience, Allen,' she said, ' patience, and
keep up your courage.'
' I should have courage, and I could endure
a great deal more of the City, if I had only
confidence in myself.'
They parted at the garden-gate. Usually
Claire contented lierself with a nod and a good-
night. This evening she gave Allen her hand.
He understood the act to mean an assurance of
sccresy, but slie meant more, though she did
not dare to put it into words. She meant an
act of respect and an appeal for forgiveness.
She started with pretence and play-acting ;
she
ended with conquest which brought luimiliation
with it.
' Allen,* she whispered, * you have only
half trusted me.'
' What more is there that I can tell you ? '
' You can show me your verses.'