_
GERTRUDE. Thank you, Jinny. I'm only afraid I will do the wrong thing
with you away! You know you're always my ballast!
JINNY. Nonsense! Female ballast is no good; masculine ballast is the
only kind that's safe if you want to make life's journey in a love
balloon. [_SHE turns to RUTH CHESTER._] Ruth--the trouble with you is,
you're too sad lately, and show such a lack of interest. I should think
you might be in love, only I haven't been able to find the man. Anyway,
if you aren't in love, you must _pretend_ an interest in things. Of
course, men's affairs are awfully dull, but they don't like you to talk
about them, so it's really very easy. All you have to do is listen,
stare them straight in the eyes, think of whatever you like, and
look pleased! It _does_ flatter them, and they think _they_ are
_interesting_, and you _charming_! Wear this, and think of me! [_Giving
her a box._] and be happy! I _want_ you to be _happy_--and I can see you
aren't!
RUTH. [_Kissing her._] Thank you, dear!
JINNY. There, that's all!--except--when I come home from abroad in
October, if every one of you aren't engaged to be married, I'll wash my
hands of you--
[_They all laugh.
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