"I agree with Mr. Rutledge," said Lola in the same monotone, as she in turn faced away from Elise, "self-respect forbids."
"Here," exclaimed Elise, "turn back over here and say all that again."
"Haven't time," said Lola with a yawn. "I must be getting my beauty-sleep. Good night."
Elise was quiet half a minute.
"Of all the silly people!"—she stirred Lola up with a poke in the ribs—"when did he tell you that?"
"I'm not divulging any confidences," said Lola.
"And what, pray, are you divulging?" asked Elise.
"My opinion that a civil question demands an answer of some sort—a good round 'no,' if nothing else—not the dismissal one gives a telegraph messenger."
"There you go again—-and I don't understand; but you said something of 'self-respect'?"
"I'm glad he has it. A man's not made for a woman to wipe her feet on, even if he does love her."