Not being in an argumentative mood, Nielsen quietly accepted his friend’s criticism. Soon, they were both meditative. Gretchen brought the mocha tart and went away. Hers was a peace-loving temperament, in distinct contrast to Erna’s, an opinion Breen expressed. Nielsen again accepted his criticism.
“After all,” the artist added comfortably: “Erna was quite a study. I confess, she fooled me.”
“How so?”
“By running off with that young gladiator.”
“Then you think she’s living with him?”
“Of course. What other conclusion should I come to?”
Nielsen did not answer. At length he said: “Then you’re ready to alter your decision of the other day?”
“That she’s a moral little thing?” Breen replied.
“Yes, to some extent,” he declared generously. “Her last act does change my first consideration a bit. But I still refuse to credit her with being unmoral.”
“Which means that you believe her immoral?” Nielsen ventured in a droll tone.