Betsy’s smile faded and she gave Eris a sharp look. Then, abruptly, she took both her hands and sat regarding her.
“I’ll tell you something,” she concluded, finally. “Men won’t fool you: you’ll fool them.”
“I shan’t try to,” said Eris.
“That’s how you’ll do it.... You’re unusual; do you realize it? What is it that interests you most?”
“I want to learn.”
“I thought so. I’ve known one or two girls like you. Pretty ones.... Almost as pretty as you, Eris. They raise the devil with men.”
“How?” asked Eris, astonished.
“Merely by being what they are,—absolutely normal under all conditions. Men are completely fooled. To a man, feminine youth and beauty mean a depthless capacity for sex sentiment. My dear, you have very little of that sort.... Or, if you have any, it’s the normal amount and is reserved for the great moment in life.”
“What is the great moment in life?” asked Eris.
“Love, I suppose.”