human
I'll tell you something, but you mustn't speak of it to Mr Carstairs, or father, or anybody; just think over it yourself, and try if you can help her. Rachel knows--she found out for herself, as I did. Vere is not brave nor submissive, nor anything that you think; it is only a pretence, for in reality she is broken-hearted. She won't allow herself to give in like other people, so she has determined to brave it out, and pretend that she doesn't care. She has always been admired and envied, and would hate it if people pitied her now, and I think there is another reason. She is angry! Angry that this should have happened to her, and that it should have happened just now when she was enjoying herself so much, and was so young and pretty. She feels that she has been ill- used, and it makes her cold and bitter. I've felt the same myself when things went wrong. It isn't right, of course: one ought to be sweet and submissive, but--can't you understand?
gpt
Yes, said Will, quickly. He stopped in his pacings to and fro, and stood thinking it over with his head leant forward on his chest. His face looked so kind, and troubled, and sorry.
human
Oh, yes, he said,
gpt
I understand only too well. Poor girl, poor child! It's awfully sad, for it is going to make it all so much more difficult for her. She doesn't see it, of course, but what she is trying to do is to accept the burden and refuse the consolation which comes with it.
human
I must say I fail to see much consolation in an injured spine,
gpt
Ask Rachel, he said,
human
If I broke my back I should die, Will. It is always fatal, I believe!