“I am in such terrible trouble that I fly to you for advice, and I do hope you will have the kindness to answer my questions. I was at the shore all summer, and I promised three young men that I would marry them. Of course, I only did it in fun, but it seems that they have all taken it seriously. How will I ever get out of such a trying predicament? I do hate to have them know that I was only flirting. “Eva L.” The girl who stoops to such unwomanly tricks as the one you mention deserves to be a little annoyed and worried. It seems incredible to us that any girl should make a solemn promise lightly. To be honest, you will be obliged to confess your folly. “How much can a girl believe of what a man says to her? Please answer this question if you can, Miss Shirley. My gentleman friends are always praising both my beauty and my grace, and, oh, the promises that they make, Miss Shirley! I am constantly being disappointed at their failures to fulfill them. “Lottie G.” My answer to your first question is this: It depends upon the man. You can believe everything that a gentleman says to you, and but very little of what a knave, a rascal or a _roue_ whispers in your ear. Men who praise you to your face are nearly always insincere. Men who make promises easily are apt to forget them easily. We would advise you to discourage these promises at the moment they are made. Do not expect anything from men and then you will not be disappointed. We suppose, of course, that these promises refer to engagements like suppers and the theatre, etc. We cannot imagine what other promises men in general can be making to a respectable young girl. We are almost afraid to read between the lines of your extraordinary letter. We would like very much to see you so that we could understand you better. “I have taken great interest in reading the correspondence department of ‘My Queen,’ and I wish to say right here that I know of no one to whom I would rather tell my troubles than the author of ‘Marion Marlowe.’ If there is such a girl as ‘Marion’ in the world, I would like to meet her. She is a perfect lady without being prudish or silly. It may sound egotistical, but I think I am a little like Marion. I am not afraid to speak out if I think I am right, and I do not blush or simper over foolish matters. Do you not think that men admire a sensible woman. One who can talk reasonably about love and marriage without squirming, wriggling, blushing and giggling? Most of the girls I know think it proper to appear embarrassed and shy the minute a man makes love to them. I would like very much to hear your opinion on this subject. “Alma I. C.”