The Young Man shook his head , but did not look at her . `` It 's pretty bad , '' he admitted . `` You see , '' said the Girl pathetically , `` the shadow of it has been over my whole life . Of course , when I was a very little girl I did n't mind it so much . It was such a long way off and lots of things might happen . The Creature might run away with some other girl -- or I might have the smallpox -- or Beatrix 's nose might be straight when she grew up . And if Beatrix 's nose were straight she 'd be a great deal prettier than I am . But nothing did happen -- and her nose is puggier than ever . Then when I grew up things were horrid . I never could have a single little bit of fun . And Beatrix had such a good time ! She had scores of lovers in spite of her nose . To be sure , she 's engaged now -- and he 's a horrid , faddy little creature . But he is her own choice . She was n't told that there was a man in England whom she must marry by and by , when he got sufficiently reconciled to the idea to come and ask her . Oh , it makes me furious ! '' `` Is -- is there -- anyone else ? '' asked the Young Man hesitatingly . `` Oh , dear , no . How could there be ?
Why , you know , I could n't have the tiniest flirtation with another XXXXX when I was as good as engaged to the Creature .
Girl anyone choice creature deal head idea man shadow smallpox