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SHIRLEY.

Helstone's regards and say, she wished to know how he was, and if anything could be done for his comfort."

"I won't."

"You are changed: you were so friendly last night."

"Come: we must not stand in this wood; it is too cold."

"But, before I go, promise me to come again to-morrow with news."

"No such thing; I am much too delicate to make and keep such appointments in the winter season: if you knew what a pain I had in my chest this morning, and how I went without breakfast, and was knocked down besides, you'd feel the impropriety of bringing me here in the snow. Come, I say."

"Are you really delicate, Martin?"

"Don't I look so?"

"You have rosy cheeks."

"That's hectic. Will you come—or you won't?"

"Where?"

"With me. I was a fool not to bring a cloak: I would have made you cozy."

"You are going home: my nearest road lies in the opposite direction."

"Put your arm through mine. I'll take care of you."

"But, the wall—the hedge—it is such hard work climbing, and you are too slender and young to help me without hurting yourself."

"You shall go through the gate."

"But——"