I move about as though I belonged where I am occasionally seen; but I'm tired of pretending that I live there." She leaned back among the cushions, dropping one knee over the other and tossing away her cigarette.

And her little suede shoe swung nervously to and fro.
"You're the first girl I've seen in New York who, I believe, really doesn't care what I am--and I don't care what she is.

Shall we be friends?
I'm lonely." Valerie looked at her, diffidently: "I haven't had very much experience in friendship--except with Rita Tevis," she said.
"Will you let me take you to drive sometimes ?" "I'd love to, only you see I am in business." "Of course I mean after hours." "Thank you....

But I usually am expected--to tea--and dinner--" Helene lay back among the cushions, looking at her.
"Haven't you any time at all for me ?" she asked, wistfully.
Valerie was thinking of Neville: "Not--very--much I am afraid--" "Can't you spare me an hour now and then ?" "Y--yes; I'll try." There was a silence.

The mantel clock struck, and Valerie glanced up.
Helene d'Enver rose, stood still a moment, then stepped forward and took both of Valerie's hands: "Can't we be friends?
I do need one; and I like you so much.