human
You see now why I simply _had_ to break with Billy. I couldn't possibly keep the two things going together--as some girls would. I'm one of those who do right, whatever happens. It's very hard for me--but if people would only be a little more sympathetic--
gpt
Evie darling, she said, trying to speak as for a child's comprehension,
human
Well, I must say I never heard anything like that, Evie declared, indignantly.
gpt
You do have the strangest ideas, Miriam. Dear mamma used to say so, too. I try to defend you, but you make it difficult for me, I must say. I never knew any one like you for making things more complicated than they need be. You talk of my asking Billy to release me when I released myself long ago--in my own mind. That's where I have to look. I must do things according to my conscience--and when that's clear--
human
It isn't only a case of conscience, dear; it's one of common sense. Conscience has a way of sometimes mistaking the issue, whereas common sense can generally be trusted to be right.
gpt
Of course, if you're going to talk that way, Miriam, I don't see what's left for me to answer; but it doesn't sound very reverent, I must say. I'm trying to look at things in the highest light, and it doesn't strike me as the highest light to be unkind to Billy when I needn't be. If you think I ought to treat him cruelly you must keep your opinion, but I know you'll excuse me if I keep mine.
human
Does your other--I hardly know what to call him--does your other fiancé know about Billy?
gpt
Why on earth should he? What good would that do? It will be all over--I mean about Billy--before I announce my second engagement, and as the one to Billy will never be announced at all there's no use in saying anything about it.
human
But suppose Billy himself finds out?
gpt
Billy won't find out anything whatever until I get ready to let him.
human
I suppose you don't mind my knowing--who it is?
gpt
I shan't mind your knowing--by-and-by. I want you to meet him first. When you've once seen him, I know you'll be more just to me. Till then I'm willing to go on being--misunderstood.