human
I have to speak with you, my child, and I do not know how many quiet, painless hours may be granted me. Come nearer to me, and listen.
gpt
I can calmly leave you, for I know that despite your youth, you need no stay and no guardian. In outward emergencies, you have Atkins at your side; his sarcastic, eternally mocking nature has never been agreeable to me; but in an association of almost twenty years, I have proved his integrity and devotion. You know that he long since amassed a fortune of his own, but he preferred to let it remain in our house. He will be at your side, until you confide yourself to the protection of a husband, which will perhaps happen soon.
human
Father, interrupted Jane,
gpt
I have something to tell you. You know that Mr. Alison has been here; he has asked for my hand.
human
And you?
gpt
I have given him my promise.
human
Ah?
gpt
And are you not willing? I felt certain of your consent in advance.
human
You know Jane, that I will neither restrict nor control you in your choice of a husband. It is your own future for which you have to decide, and I am convinced that you have not decided without serious deliberation.
gpt
No; the proposal did not come unexpectedly to me. I have implicit confidence in Mr. Alison's character, and in his future; his family is one of the first in our city, his position is brilliant, and I am certain that his mercantile genius will in after years secure him an important place in the business world. Does this not appear sufficient to you, my father?
human
To _me_? certainly, if it is enough for _you_!
gpt
What more could be demanded from a marriage?
human
You are right, Jane, quite right! I was only thinking of my own wooing, and of your mother's promise. But it is just as well. Mr. Alison indeed possesses all the advantages you have named, and in these respect you are more than his equal; you will be very content with each other.
gpt
I hope so!