Page 293 of Edge of Eternity (The Century 3)

"Men who ignore public opinion don't remain in politics long, not in a democracy."

Maria raised her voice in frustration. "So no one can ever oppose a war?"

"Maybe that's why we have so many of them."

Their food came, and Maria changed the subject. "How is Verena?"

George felt he knew Maria well enough to be frank. "I adore her," he said. "She stays at my apartment every time she comes to town, which is about once a month. But she doesn't seem to want to settle down."

"If she settled down with you, she'd have to live in Washington."

"Is that so bad?"

"Her job is in Atlanta."

George did not see the problem. "Most women live where their husband's job is."

"Things are changing. If Negroes can be equal, why not women?"

"Oh, come on!" George said indignantly. "It's not the same."

"It certainly is not. Sexism is worse. Half the human race are enslaved."

"Enslaved?"

"Think how many housewives work hard all day for no pay! And in most parts of the world, a woman who leaves her husband is liable to be arrested and brought home by the police. Someone who works for nothing and can't leave the job is called a slave, George."

George was annoyed by this argument, the more so as Maria seemed to be winning it. But he saw an opportunity to bring up the subject that was really worrying him. He said: "Is this why you're single?"

Maria looked uncomfortable. "Partly," she said, not meeting his eye.

"When do you think you might start dating again?"

"Soon, I guess."

"Don't you want to?"

"Yes, but I work hard, and don't have much spare time."

George did not buy this. "You think no one can ever live up to the man you lost."

She did not deny it. "Am I wrong?" she said.

"I believe you could find someone who would be kinder to you than he was. Someone smart and sexy and also faithful."

"Maybe."

"Would you go out on a blind date?"

"I might."

"Do you care if he's black or white?"

"Black. It's too much trouble, dating white guys."

"Okay." George was thinking of Leopold Montgomery, the reporter. But he did not say so yet. "How was your steak?"

"It melted in the mouth. Thank you for bringing me here. And for remembering my birthday."

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