Monica showed a painful confusion. She overcame it, however, and soon answered.
“She would perhaps try not—not to acknowledge it to herself.”
“When, in fact, it had happened?”
“She thinks it so much nobler to disregard such feelings.”
“I know. She is to be an inspiring example to the women who cannot hope to marry.” He laughed silently. “And I suppose it is quite possible that mere shame would withhold her from taking the opposite course.”
“I think she is very strong. But—”
“But?”
He looked eagerly into her face.
“I can’t tell. I don’t really know her. A woman may be as much a mystery to another woman as she is to a man.”
“On the whole, I am glad to hear you say that. I believe it. It is only the vulgar that hold a different opinion.”