human
I entered into your life twice, and each time I did you harm. On the first occasion I turned you into Herbert Strange, and sent you out on a career of deception; on the second, I came between you and Evie, and brought you to the present pass, where you're facing death again, as you were eight or nine years ago. It's no use to tell you that I wanted to do my best, because good intentions are not much excuse for the trouble they often cause. But I'm ready to say this: that whenever you've suffered, I've suffered more. That's especially true of what's happened in the last six months. And when I saw how much I had put wrong, it was a comfort to think there was something at least that I could put right again.
gpt
But you've put nothing wrong. That's what I should like to convince you of.
human
I've put you in a position of danger. When I see that, I see enough to act upon.
gpt
It's a very slight danger.
human
It is now, because I've made it slight. It wasn't--before I went to Mr. Conquest.
gpt
You went to him--what for?
human
He wanted me to marry him. He had wanted it for a long time. I told him I would do so, on condition that he found the evidence that would prove you innocent.
gpt
So that's it! That's why Conquest has been so devilishly kind. I wondered at his interest--or at least I should have wondered if I'd had the time. As a matter of fact, I took it for granted that he should help me, as a drowning man takes it for granted that the chance passer-by should pull him out. It wasn't till this evening--about half an hour ago--By Jove! I ran right up against it.
human
You ran right up against--what?
gpt
Against the truth. It came in a flash--just like that. He snapped his fingers.
human
You're selling yourself--to get me off.
gpt
Well? Why shouldn't I? My mother sold herself--to get a man off. He was my father. I'm proud of her. She did the best she could with her life. I'm doing the best I can with mine.
human
But I shouldn't be doing the best I can with mine--if I let you continue.
gpt
Isn't it too late for you to stop me? If I've sold myself as you put it, the price has been paid in. Mr. Conquest has secured the evidence that will acquit you. It will be used. That's all I care about--much.