“It is absolutely imperative that you understand my position and the reasons behind it.”
“You said that before.”
“I can’t overemphasize it.”
“I’m listening.”
“You’re a rather competent, capable woman, Mrs. Cool. One feels a little embarrassed in discussing— Well, the businesslike atmosphere of your office is hardly conducive to a discussion of romantic details.”
Bertha said, “By the time romance gets to this shop it’s sordid as hell. Wives want evidence, women want damages, men want out.”
“I can understand.”
“I suppose,” Bertha went on, “you want to tell me something about the dashing personality of the gay seducer who was Carlotta’s father.”
A faint half-smile touched the lips of her visitor, a sardonic travesty on mirth. “I was the seducer.”
“You interest me.”