human
Charlotte, said Miss Harman--there was a change in her, the proud look and bearing were gone--
gpt
Charlotte, she said,
human
Lay it there, my darling. As you have got into my heart of hearts, so would I comfort you.
gpt
Ah, Charlotte, how my heart has beat! but your love is like a cool hand laid upon it, it is growing quiet.
human
Charlotte, you are right in reminding me that I am a mother. I must treat you as I would my little Daisy. Daisy trusts me absolutely and has no fear; you must trust me altogether, and fear nothing.
gpt
I do. I fear nothing when I am with you. Charlotte, next Tuesday was to have been my wedding-day.
human
Yes, dear.
gpt
But it is all on an end now; I broke off my engagement yesterday. And yet, how much I love him! Charlotte, don't look at me so pityingly.
human
Was I doing so? I was wondering if you slept last night.
gpt
Slept! No, people don't sleep when their hearts beat as hard as mine did, but I am better now.
human
Then, Charlotte, I must prescribe for you, as a mother. For the next two hours you are my child and shall obey me; we have a great deal to say to each other; but first of all, before we say a single word, you must lie on this sofa, and I will hold your hand. You shall try and sleep.
gpt
But can you spare the time from your children?
human
You are my child now; as long as you want me I will stay with you. See, I am going to draw down the blinds, and I will lock the door; you must not be disturbed.