When the music ceased he sauntered up and told her that her sister had
retired.
"I had better follow her example," she said.
"Would you not like a brief stroll on the piazza? After exertions
that, in you, seem almost superhuman, you must be warm."
"Why more superhuman in me than in others?"
"Simply because of my old and preconceived notions."
"I fear I am disappointing you in every respect. I had hoped to give
you pleasure."
"Oh, well, Madge, I see we must let the past go and begin again."
"Begin fairly, then, and not in prejudice."
"Does it matter very much to you how I begin?"
"I shall not answer such questions."
"I am glad to see that you can enjoy yourself so thoroughly. You can
now look forward to a long career of happiness, Madge, since you can
obtain so much from a reel."
"You do not know what I am looking forward to."
"Why?"
"Because you are not acquainted with me."
"I thought I was at one time."
"I became discontented with that time, and have tried to be
different."
"And you must have succeeded beyond your wildest dreams."
"Oh, no, I've only made a beginning. I should be conceit embodied if I
thought myself finished."
"What is your supreme ambition, then?"
"I am trying to be a woman, Graydon.
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