human
Meeting you was a great surprise, continued Atkins.
gpt
We believed you in London; was it not your plan to go directly from there to Paris?
human
Certainly, but as business called me to the Rhine, and as Miss Forest had been for some weeks in B., I came out of my way so as to pass a few days with her. I was very much surprised at your decision to accompany her to Germany.
gpt
You were surprised because I always derided the country, returned Atkins indifferently.
human
I came here mostly on Miss Forest's account, she is the only practical thing in this sentimental land; I am nominally Miss Jane's guardian, although she is more than independent in all things; and I did not think it proper for her to cross the ocean alone. And, besides, as I know so many Germans in America, I would not deny myself the satisfaction of admiring them in their own much vaunted fatherland. I hope you thank me for remaining at the side of your betrothed.
gpt
Certainly! replied Alison in a somewhat chilly tone,
human
I am only astonished that the requirements of Miss Forest demanded so long an absence on your part.
gpt
Give yourself no uneasiness, Henry. Your future fortune is in safe hands.
human
I did not ask in my own interest,
gpt
But in those of Miss Jane, which in a year's time will be yours. Well, do not get angry! It is only natural that you should concern yourself with this matter, and I perhaps owe you some explanation. You know, I suppose, that the deceased Mr. Forest, during the last years of his life, converted most of his property into money. The money is safely deposited, all the other business was settled in two months after his death; the landed property is in good hands; a fortune entrusted to my stewardship would not be placed in jeopardy for the sake of a pleasure tour, Mr. Alison.