"We smoke the same Egyptians," he mocked.

"That's a good reason, so far as it goes."

"And you're such a charming puzzle that I would like to
domesticate it and study the eternal mystery at my leisure."

"Then it's as a diversion that you want me."

"A thing of beauty and a joy forever, the poet puts it. But
diversion if you like. What greater test of charming versatility
for a woman than that she remain a diversion to her husband,
unstaled by custom and undulled by familiarity?"

After all her father would be pleased to have her marry an
American business man. The Powers' millions could easily buy for
her a fine old dukedom if she wanted one. At present there was
more than one available title-holder on her horizon. But Valencia
did not care to take up the responsibilities that go with such a
position. She was too indolent to adapt her life to the standards
of others--and perhaps too proud. Moreover, it happened that she
had had enough of the club man type in the late lamented Van Tyle.
This man was a worker. He would not annoy her or interfere with
her careless pleasures. Again she asked herself, Why not?

"I suppose you really do like me." Her face was tilted in gay
little appeal.

"I'm not going to tell you how much. It wouldn't be good for
discipline in the house."