"Ay, Dick, an' that ye do!" she answered, smiling.

Well, then!" he returned, triumphant. "So was it with you, poor

Matcham, in the forest. In sooth, ye were a wench to laugh at. But

now!"

So they ran on, holding each other by both hands, exchanging smiles and

lovely looks, and melting minutes into seconds; and so they might have

continued all night long. But presently there was a noise behind them;

and they were aware of the short young lady, with her finger on her lips.

"Saints!" she cried, "but what a noise ye keep! Can ye not speak in

compass? And now, Joanna, my fair maid of the woods, what will ye give

your gossip for bringing you your sweetheart?"

Joanna ran to her, by way of answer, and embraced her fierily.

"And you, sir," added the young lady, "what do ye give me?"

"Madam," said Dick, "I would fain offer to pay you in the same money."

"Come, then," said the lady, "it is permitted you."

But Dick, blushing like a peony, only kissed her hand.

What ails ye at my face, fair sir?" she inquired, curtseying to the very

The Black Arrow