Page:Side talks with girls (1895).djvu/239

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A Stranger in a Strange Land
227

thing to do, as we cannot go upon her day at home, is to write her a pleasant little note, telling her that we are busy women, that we cannot come upon her day at home, and asking if she will permit us to come at some other time. You, who claim to be very independent, say that you will not give in to her in this way. That is ridiculous. She is a woman older than either of us, and respect is due to her for that reason if for no other. Then, too, we have sought her in presenting the letter, and if we wish to continue the acquaintance and to gain her friendship, we must make it plain to her just how we are situated. Being a kindly woman she asks us to come and have a cup of tea on the home day, Sunday, or else she invites us on some special evening, and then we become acquainted with her. So you see our manners in regard to cards and letters, as well as at the table, have much to do with our gaining friends.

A FALSE PRIDE

You say you are sensitive. I say you are foolish. When any one seems to overlook you, you claim it is because you are earning your living. Now I insist that that has nothing to do with it. It is because there is something in you that doesn't attract this person. People are liked socially for what they are and what they can give and not for