Page:The Reverberator (2nd edition, American issue, London and New York, Macmillan & Co., 1888).djvu/143

Rh lesson. But I could listen to you all day." Francie gave an exclamation of impatience and incredulity and Mr. Flack pursued: "Don't you remember what you told me that time we had that talk at Saint-Germain, on the terrace? You said I might remain your friend."

"Well, that's all right," said the girl.

"Then ain't we interested in the development of our friends—in their impressions, their transformations, their adventures? Especially a person like me, who has got to know life—who has got to know the world."

"Do you mean to say I could teach you about life?" Francie demanded.

"About some kinds, certainly. You know a lot of people whom it's difficult to get at unless one takes some extraordinary measures, as you have done."

"What do you mean? What measures have I taken?"

"Well, they have—to get hold of you—and it's the same thing. Pouncing on you, to secure you; I call that energetic, and don't you think I ought to know?" asked Mr. Flack, smiling. "I thought I was energetic, but they got ahead of me. They're a society apart, and they must be very curious."

"Yes, they're curious," Francie admitted, with a little sigh. Then she inquired: "Do you want to put them in the paper?"