"Not until it comes naturally. No hop-skip-and-jump for mine."
Edith sighed. "It is terribly dull for me here at present," she said. "Mr. Cortlandt is very busy; I have no one to talk to; no one to amuse me. Why, I've scarcely seen you since you went to work."
"It is flattering to be missed."
"Will you come to the dance to-morrow night?"
He shook his head.
"The music is good; you will meet some nice people. If you remember, one of your qualifications for a position was that you are a good waltzer."
"I can't mingle with the 'quality.'"
"Be sensible. This is an invitation."
"I am getting sensible fast. I've learned something about Canal conditions. What would people say if Mrs. Stephen Cortlandt were seen dancing with the new collector of No. 2?"
"My dear boy, do you suppose Mrs. Stephen Cortlandt cares what these people say?"