girl can make in three years, and because I’m always in the midst of luxuries, and because I have whims and caprices, and because my face has certain curves in it, and because men get jealous with each other about kissing my hand, that therefore I’ve got all I want.”

“Certain curves!” I burst out. “Why, you’re the most beautiful creature I ever saw!”

“There!” she cried. “That’s just how they all talk. I do hate it.”

“Do you?” I said. “Then I’ll never call you beautiful again. But I should have thought you were fairly happy.”

“I’m happy when I’m singing well,” she answered —