What a contrast the lives of the two girls offered, a contrast which Marguerite Arnot could scarcely fail to appreciate, especially if she had allowed herself to feel attracted by the young American who had been so intimate a member of their household for the past weeks.
It was not that Bettina possessed merely the gifts of beauty and cleverness and a charming nature, Marguerite Arnot might also lay claim to these. But Bettina had worldly possessions as well, a distinguished father, a mother who was one of the most fascinating women in Washington, a younger brother—all adoring her. She had wealth also, perhaps not wealth as Americans regard it, but certainly what would have been a fortune to the young French girl.
David Hale was ambitious, never having hesitated to reveal his intention to fight his way to a foremost position. Between the two girls, if he should ever care for either one of them, how much more Bettina would have to offer him!
At the moment of Mrs. Burton’s reflection, David Hale was talking with great earnestness to Bettina.
“Is it true that you may be leaving Versailles in a few weeks, perhaps before the Peace Conference is finally ended?”
Bettina nodded.
“Yes, I am going to England with Captain and Mrs. Burton for a visit and then home. I am glad and sorry; there will never be so wonderful a time in my life as these weeks of the Peace Conference, and yet I have always wished to spend a summer in England.”
“Aren’t you sorry to say goodby except to France?” David Hale asked.
Again Bettina laughed.
“Why of course I am, sorry to say goodby to you. But I hope you mean to come to see us some day in Washington. At least you know my mother is lovely. And may I continue to wish you luck with your work here at the Peace Congress. I hope you are accomplishing all you hoped for and that some splendid new opportunity will come to you when this work is finished.”