human
My darling, do you know me?
gpt
I went in to call Robert to breakfast. I have been with him in the garden. He asked me to go. A heavy dew has refreshed the flowers. The peaches are ripening.
human
My darling! my darling!
gpt
I thought it was daylight--long after sunrise. It looks dark. Is the moon now set?
human
Then it is not morning? I am not at the cottage? Who is this? I see a shape at my bedside.
gpt
It is myself--it is your friend--your nurse--your---- Lean your head on my shoulder. Collect yourself. In a lower tone--
human
O God, take pity! Give _her_ life, and _me_ strength! Send me courage! Teach me words!
gpt
I am better now, whispered Caroline at last,
human
It is not fear, child--only a little anxiety, which will pass. I have brought you some tea, Cary. Your uncle made it himself. You know he says he can make a better cup of tea than any housewife can. Taste it. He is concerned to hear that you eat so little; he would be glad if you had a better appetite.
gpt
I am thirsty. Let me drink.
human
What o'clock is it, ma'am?
gpt
Past nine.
human
Not later? Oh! I have yet a long night before me. But the tea has made me strong. I will sit up.
gpt
Thank Heaven! I am not always equally miserable, and ill, and hopeless. The afternoon has been bad since Hortense went; perhaps the evening may be better. It is a fine night, I think? The moon shines clear.
human
Very fine--a perfect summer night. The old church-tower gleams white almost as silver.
gpt
And does the churchyard look peaceful?
human
Yes, and the garden also. Dew glistens on the foliage.
gpt
Can you see many long weeds and nettles amongst the graves? or do they look turfy and flowery?
human
I see closed daisy-heads gleaming like pearls on some mounds. Thomas has mown down the dock-leaves and rank grass, and cleared all away.
gpt
I always like that to be done; it soothes one's mind to see the place in order. And, I dare say, within the church just now that moonlight shines as softly as in my room. It will fall through the east window full on the Helstone monument. When I close my eyes I seem to see poor papa's epitaph in black letters on the white marble. There is plenty of room for other inscriptions underneath.
human
William Farren came to look after your flowers this morning. He was afraid, now you cannot tend them yourself, they would be neglected. He has taken two of your favourite plants home to nurse for you.
gpt
If I were to make a will, I would leave William all my plants; Shirley my trinkets--except one, which must not be taken off my neck; and you, ma'am, my books. After a pause--
human
Mrs. Pryor, I feel a longing wish for something.
gpt
For what, Caroline?