Neith Boyce

“ She was writing during the last part of my speech—a check, which she slipped into the envelope along with the fatal bill. In her cheek, turned toward me, I suddenly perceived a dimple—in love, you know, there is always one who kisses, and one who turns the cheek. Helena had always turned her cheek—with the dimple in it. ”

“ Years passed, we acquired three children and a house in New York, and Helena developed into a most conscientious and able manager of the family. She is a good housekeeper, with a firm hand over the servants; she supervises most carefully the children's health, morals and education, and she maintains an atmosphere of cheer and comfort in the home. She works about fifteen hours a day. She is economical in her personal expenditures. ”

“ She said a lot more, along that line, for Helena, like all conscientious and energetic people, is a bit of a nagger. Finally I interrupted with these remarks: “You’re right, Helena, gifts are absurd especially between business partners. It's ridiculous for me to give you roses and expect you to pay the bill. I apologize. It was self-indulgence on my part. It always is. A gift means quid pro quo. Nothing for nothing. ”