“WHAT DIDN’T THEY SAY? THEY FLEW AT ME LIKE WILDCATS.”
“‘It’s a gross exaggeration!’ I said.
“‘Well, I thought it over, and made up my mind they were right,’ she went on. ‘We kissed and made up and organized the Listeners’ Circle, and mama and Mrs. Bryson and Mrs. Doolittle have joined. Our purpose is to regulate our talk supply very strictly to the demand.’
“‘It’s a grand idea!’ I exclaimed. ‘The Ladies’ Talk and Information Trust! Why, it will soon control the entire product of Pointview, and can fix the price. Marie, it’s only a matter of time when the conversation of you girls is going to be in the nature of a luxury and as much desired as diamonds. It won’t be long before some young fellow will offer his life for one word from you.’
“‘Oh, I’m hopeless! Nobody cares for me––not a soul!’ said Marie.
“‘Wait and give ’em a chance,’ I answered.
“‘Do you think it’s true that I’ve 62 been such a pestilence?’ she asked, as her fingers toyed with the upholstery. ‘You know you’ve been a kind of father to me, and I want you to tell me frankly if I’ve really made the boys sick.’
“‘Why, my dear child, if I were a young man I’d be kneeling at your feet,’ I said; and no wonder, for they were a beautiful pair of feet, and none ever supported a nobler girl. Then I went on: ‘Marie, your talk is charming. The demand continues. I feel honored by your confidence. Please go on.’
“‘I believe I’ve been foolish without knowing it,’ she said, her smile beautiful with its sadness.