"Never mind the last; only, instead of fear, have hope. Sir Robert is a widower, who knows what effect you may produce?"
"I have no ambition for such a conquest."
"That is because you are not yet come to a full use of your understanding. Universal conquest should be the motto of our sex. Every woman should try to make every man she sees in love with her."
"And what is she to do with all these lovers when she has them?"
"Why, not much; it is not every person who can be made useful: still, there they are if you want them. To make a man in love with you gives an instant hold on his vanity; and with that, you can do any thing. Vanity is the real lever with which Archimedes said he could move the earth; so, try what you can effect with Sir Robert."
"I fear that will not be much," replied Ethel, with a disconsolate air.
"At all events, look your very best; and I shall call for you about twelve. Remember, the most perfect toilet; men do not understand
