“But is not the party of progress in Germany trying to improve the position of women?” asked Mr. Wanless with a securing grip of his eyeglass.
“It cannot be improved,” said Frau Schultz.
“That is a matter of opinion,” replied Mr. Wanless. “When elegant ladies have Damen-lectüre especially written for them, and when peasant women are harnessed to a cart by the side of the cow, while the husband walks behind smoking his cigar—I think a little improvement is necessary somewhere.”
He spoke in a clear, authoritative voice, commanding attention.
“Have you been in Germany?” asked Frau Schultz.
“I have been all over the world—travelled continuously for twenty years. Somehow the position of women has interested me. It is an index to the sociology of a country.”
“Which is the most interesting one you know from that point of view?” asked old Mr. Chetwynd, who had been following the conversation.
“Burmah,” replied Mr. Wanless. “It is the anomaly of the East. Germany could learn many lessons from her.”
“Is the position of women very high there?” asked Miss Bunter, timidly, the mention of Burmah having stimulated her interest to the pitch of speaking.
“Oh yes!” returned Mr. Wanless, laughing. “A wife is the grey mare there with a vengeance.”