human
No, Signorina, I do not expect that; for he has promised to marry me.
gpt
Ah--h! it is a relief to hear you say so. My dear Paolina, I am so glad, said the elder girl, putting a hand on each of Paolina's shoulders, and kissing her on the forehead--
human
I am so glad; much for your own sake, somewhat, too, for his, and much for my own sake. For, Paolina, I could not marry Ludovico. If he asked me to do so, it would be only done in obedience to the will of his uncle. He does not--no, 'tis no fault of yours, my child--never has loved me.
gpt
Signora, when first I--allowed him to teach me to love him, I knew nothing of any duty that he owed elsewhere. And when I did know it I determined, even if it should break my heart, to refuse any such love as should have been stolen from a wife,
human
That was the part of a good and honest girl. And for me, I have to thank you for it. Paolina, I hope you may be happy. We shall often meet here, shall we not?
gpt
Not often here, Signora. My task here is not a long one; and I hope by the end of Carnival to have finished it, so that I may go to St. Apollinare, outside the town, where I have to make several copies. It is very desirable not to go there later; because when the warm weather comes it becomes so unhealthy there.
human
Yes; but we have some days yet before the end of the Carnival; and till then you will be at work every day here?
gpt
Si, Signora; I hope so.
human
Then I hope we shall have several more opportunities of seeing each other. And now I must not keep you from your work any longer. Shall we be friends?
gpt
Oh, Signorina; it is too good of you to ask me, a poor artist. And when--it would be my greatest pride to have such a friend.