the others had banjos, and it was heavenly!” [169] “And such things still happen in this prematurely-aged, materialistic world!” marvelled Winthrop. “It sounds like a fairy tale!” “I reckon it sounds silly to you,” said Holly. “Silly! Oh, my dear young lady, if you could only realize how very, very rich you are!” “Rich?” “Yes, rich and wise with the unparalleled wealth and wisdom of Youth! Hearken to the words of Age and Experience, Miss Holly,” he continued, half jestingly, half seriously. “The world belongs to you and your kind; it is the Kingdom of Youth. The rest of us are here on sufferance;[170] but you belong. The world tolerates Age, but to Youth it owes allegiance and love. But your days are short in your kingdom, O Queen, so make the most of them; laugh and play and love and live; above all, live! And above all be extravagant, extravagant of laughter—and of tears; extravagant of affection; run the gamut of life every hour; be mad, be foolish—but live! And so when the World thrusts you to one side, saying: ‘The King is dead! Long live the King!’ you will have no regrets for a wasted reign, but can say: ‘While I ruled, I lived!’” [170] “I—I don’t understand—quite!” faltered Holly. “Because you are too wise.” “I reckon you mean too stupid,” mourned Holly. “Too wise. You are Youth, and Youth is Perfect Wisdom. When you grow old you will know more but be less wise. And the longer you live the more learning will come to you and the more wisdom will depart. And in proof of this I point to myself[171] as an example. For no wise person would try to convince Youth of its wisdom.” Winthrop stopped and drew his cigarette-case from his pocket. When he had lighted a cigarette he smiled quizzically across at the girl’s sober, half-averted face. “It’s very warm, isn’t it?” he asked, with a little laugh. [171] But Holly made no reply for a minute. Then she
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