there must be assistants at hand who must hold one's legs in steady
grip, and others who must sit on the lower part of the body to assure
the proper equilibrium.

Being entirely alone, it is needless to say, Chester did not kiss the
Blarney Stone. He was satisfied with reaching under and touching it with
his hand. Then he returned to Lucy.

"You did not kiss the stone," she immediately declared.

"You know, don't you, that it takes two to kiss--the Blarney Stone?"

"I've heard it so stated. I've never been up to it."

The park around the castle is very inviting, especially on a fine, warm
afternoon. There are big trees, grass, and neatly kept walks. Chester
and Lucy sauntered under the trees. A tiny brook gurgled near by, the
birds were singing. Lucy chattered merrily along, but Chester was not so
talkative. She noticed his mood and asked why he was so silent.

"I was thinking of that promise. I fear I am not doing right."

"O, that reminds me--Father, of course could not--"

"Could not what?"

"Well, the night before he became so ill on the boat he told me he was
going to release you from any promise not to meet me and talk religion
to me."