human
Go into the sitting-room, Urania dear, and just let me have my bath.
gpt
My dear child, why are you upsetting yourself like this? You've achieved your ideal. Your marriage is as good as certain. You're waiting for an answer from Chicago? You're impatient? Then cable out. I should have cabled at once in your place. You don't imagine, do you, that your father has any objection to your becoming Duchess di San Stefano?
human
I don't know yet what I myself want, said Urania, weeping.
gpt
I don't know, I don't know.
human
You're more sensible than I thought,
gpt
Are you really my friend? Can I trust you? Can I trust your advice?
human
I won't advise you again. I have advised you. You must know your own mind.
gpt
Which would you prefer, that I accepted Gilio ... or not?
human
You're making yourself unhappy about nothing. You think--and the marchesa probably thinks with you--that I want to take Gilio from you? No, darling, I wouldn't marry Gilio if he were king and emperor. I have a bit of the socialist in me: I don't marry for the sake of a title.
gpt
No more would I.
human
Of course, darling, no more would you. I never dreamt of suggesting that you would. But you ask me which I should prefer. Well, I tell you in all sincerity: I don't prefer either. The whole business leaves me cold.
gpt
And you call yourself my friend!
human
So I am, dear, and I will remain your friend. Only don't come overwhelming me with reproaches on an empty stomach!
gpt
You're a flirt.
human
Sometimes. It comes natural to me. But, honestly, I won't be so again with Gilio.
gpt
Do you mean it?
human
Yes, of course. What do I care? He amuses me; but, if it offends you, I'll gladly sacrifice my amusement for your sake. I don't value it so much.
gpt
Are you fond of Mr. van der Staal?
human
Very.
gpt
Are you going to marry him, Cornélie?
human
No, dear. I sha'n't marry again. I know what marriage means. Are you coming for a little walk with me? It's a fine day; and you have upset me so with your little troubles that I can't do any work this morning. It's lovely weather: come along and buy some flowers in the Piazza di Spagna.