CHAPTER VI -Frivolous Cupid

In Chapter VI of “Frivolous Cupid,” titled “Which Shall It Be?”, a day unfolds with a philosopher engrossed in a book of ontology, critically analyzing its contents, oblivious to the serene environment of the orchard he is in. His solitude is interrupted by Miss May, a young woman seeking his counsel on a matter of the heart under the guise of discussing a scenario from a novel she has been reading. She paints a picture of a girl torn between two prospective lovers: one whom her family and she find suitable but for whom her feelings are lukewarm, and another, a man of remarkable intellect and attractiveness, who holds her admiration and love, albeit unreciprocated.

As the philosopher engages with Miss May’s theoretical dilemma, he meticulously dissects the situation, leaning on logic and probability to guide his advice. He underscores the perils and uncertainties of aspiring for the affection of the ‘clever’ friend, emphasizing the value of a stable and genuine offering of love from the other suitor. Through this dialogue, the philosopher advocates for practicality and the promise of growing affection over the allure of a more passionate, yet uncertain, attachment.

Miss May, subtly revealing that her ‘novel dilemma’ mirrors her own, probes the philosopher on the potential for regret in the unreciprocated love interest, should he later realize what he had dismissed. The dialogue gently unveils the depth of her feelings and her silent hope for a different stance from the philosopher, potentially her own unreciprocated love interest. Yet, as the conversation reaches its logical conclusion favoring the safer choice, her disappointment is palpable, though unspoken.

The chapter closes as the philosopher, oblivious to Miss May’s emotional turmoil and the personal stakes involved, returns to his scholarly pursuits, leaving Miss May to wrestle with her feelings and the realizations from their conversation. The essence of the dialogue, steeped in reason over emotion, encapsulates a moment of human connection and misunderstanding, highlighting the complexities of love and choice.