human
It is a thing quite impossible,
gpt
Why impossible? I can certainly do the work; and it can not make me less of a lady. Besides, we had better not be ladies if we can not be honest ones. And, Selina, where is the money to come from? We have none in the house; we can not get any till Christmas.
human
Opportunities might occur. We have friends.
gpt
Not one in London; except, perhaps, Mr. Ascott, and I would not ask him for a farthing. You don't see, Selina, how horrible it would be to be helped, unless by some one dearly loved. I couldn't bear it! I'd rather beg, starve: almost steal!
human
Don't be violent, child.
gpt
Oh, but it's hard! and the cry of long-smothered pain burst out.
human
Hard enough to have to earn one's bread in a way one doesn't like; harder still to have to be parted from Johanna from Monday morning till Saturday night. But it must be, I'll go. It's a case between hunger, debt, and work: the first is unpleasant, the second impossible, the third is my only alternative. You must consent, Selina, for I will do it.
gpt
Don't! Selina spoke more gently, and not without some natural emotion.
human
Don't disgrace me, child; for I may as well tell you--I meant to do so to-night--Mr. Ascott has made me an offer of marriage, and I--I have accepted it.
gpt
Oh, Selina! you can not be in earnest?
human
Why not? Why should I not be married as well as my neighbors?
gpt
I assure you, sisters, there could not be a more unexceptionable offer. It is true, Mr. Ascott's origin was rather humble; but I can overlook that. In his present wealth, and with his position and character, he will make the best of husbands.