“Well, I tried at Woodward & Lothrop’s.” Sonia’s tone was distinctly sulky. “They hadn’t any vacancy—or anyhow they said so.”
“They always have a long waiting-list, I know. Did you leave your name?”
“No, I didn’t. What was the use with scores ahead of me?”
“And where else did you try?”
“I didn’t try anywhere else!” Sonia said with a defiant lift of her chin. “You needn’t think, Olga, that you can drive me like a slave just because I am staying with you. I’m going to take my time about this business, and don’t you forget it!”
Olga waited until she could speak quietly; then she said, “Sonia, there is one thing you’ve got to understand. I must have peace. I cannot do my work if there is to be discord and friction all the time between you and me.”
“It’s your own fault,” Sonia retorted. “I’m peaceful enough if I’m let alone. I let you alone.”
“But, Sonia, don’t you see that we can’t go on this way?” Olga pleaded. “Don’t you feel that you ought to pay half our expenses if you stay with me?”
“No, I don’t. Why should I pay half?” Sonia demanded. “Your rent is no higher because I am here.”
“No, but I have to sleep on the floor, and it is not very restful as you would find if you tried it once.”