"Between girls, I will readily admit," returned the
youth. "But let us examine this question after the
manner of the courts--"

"Nay, if you talk law I shall quit you," interrupted
the young lady gaily.

"Certainly one so learned in the subject need not
dread a cross-examination," cried the youth, in her
own manner.

"Well, proceed," cried the lady. "I have driven aunt
Margaret from the field, and you will fare no better,
I can assure you."

"Men, you say, are too gross to feel a pure
friendship; in the first place, please to explain
yourself on this point."

"Why I mean, that your friendships are generally
interested; that it requires services and good
offices to support it."

{interested = not pure, having an ulterior motive}

"While that of women depends on--"

"Feeling alone."