You can straighten out the difficulties of this case, if you
will, in a thoroughly feminine manner."
"And what, sir, is that, I pray you?"
"Give him the opportunity--to fall in love with you."
Helene's cheeks flushed a stronger carmine than the rouge which
she was administering, as she looked up in quick embarrassment.
"I don't want him to love me. I want no man to love me," was the
petulant answer.
"Doubtless you have reason to be satisfied as things are,"
replied Shirley, puffing a cigarette, "but the softness of
cerebral conditions increases in direct ratio with the mushiness
of the affections. If it is important to us--and you are my
partner in this fascinating business venture--will you not
sacrifice your emotions to that extent: merely to let him lead
himself on, as most men do?" He paused for a critical
observation of her, and then added: "You are even more beautiful
to-day than you were yesterday. He cannot help loving you if he
is given the chance!"
Helene's white fingers crushed the orchid which she was pinning
to the bosom of her gown.
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