Roxanne took umbrage at that. Really? Women didn't have man problems when you were young, I take it?

Mrs. Needleman's shoulders moved up and down while she chuckled. Of course we did! The old woman's chuckle faded into a sigh. Modern-day woman didn't discover the broken heart, my dears. As long as there have been men and women there's been drama, betrayal, ecstasy, hope, despair, and even, on occasion, love. But it's never been a cakewalk for any of us.

So what's so terrible about my Web site, then? Roxanne asked.

Mrs. Needleman didn't bother to hide her sadness, and her old eyes grew watery. The sheer amount of venom oozing out of everyone these daysit's destructive to the spirit of the world. She pointed an arthritic finger at Roxanne. You may think your business is tongue-in-cheek and harmless, but it's feeding the dragon, you see. If the world is to survive, we need women who are open to love, not hardened by bitter resentment.

Roxie laughed uncomfortably. Hey, well, bitter resentment happens to be a growth industry. My retail sales are up four hundred percent since June!

Bea snorted again.

Mrs. Needleman pushed her chair away from the dining table, piqued. Only love attracts love. Distrust only creates more distrust. It's a universal truth. She lowered her eyes and in a whisper added, I fear I'm running out of time.

Ginger was struck by the weight of Gloria's softly spoken words. It was almost as if the old lady thought the fate of humanity rested on her frail shoulders. Ginger reached across the table and touched the sleeve of Gloria's blouse.

We'll get you back to the ranch for the night. You must be very tired.

Oh, fiddle. Gloria waved her away. I'm just a lonely old bat who talks too much when she gets a captive audience. She stood up from her chair and grabbed her handbag. All right. It's settled, then.