AI image created by R. Kent Rasmussen |
Contrary to what one would expect of a woman whose fame was based on her
beauty, Mrs. Langtry is an exceptionally intelligent person. She must read
constantly because she is able to discuss in detail any book, classical
or modern, English or American or French, that is mentioned to her. I know
she isn't shamming, because I questioned her in some detail, and she KNEW
the books. She also reads the newspapers, and doesn't bother with the trivia.
She can talk about worldly affairs or financial matters or whatever with
the good sense one would expect of a man who keeps up to date. She meets
a stranger as an equal, and although she's so pretty her beauty is blinding,
and she doesn't rely on feminine charm. She's what she is, and she expects
one to take her or leave her. She is good company with her friends, but
it would be hell to be married to her. She's too damn bright.
- quoted in Because I Loved Him: The Life and Loves of Lillie Langtry:
A Biography (1971) by Noel B. Gerson, p. 165. Gerson provides no citation
and the primary source is currently unknown. |
