"I hope you will be a great deal stronger when you come back, dear."
"I shall be—or I shall have an operation. I don't intend to remain in the noble army of N.P.'s."
"How is John?"
"Flourishing and busy—oh, tremendously busy! He might just as well live in
New York or Washington for all I see of him."
"Steve says he is very clever and successful,—you must be so proud!"
Isabelle smiled. "Of course! But sometimes I think I should like a substitute husband, one for everyday use, you know!"
"There are plenty of that kind!" laughed Alice. "But I don't believe they would satisfy you wholly."
"Perhaps not…. How is Steve? Does he like his new work?"
"Yes," Alice replied without enthusiasm. "He's working very hard, too."
"Oh, men love it,—it makes them feel important."