human
Why, mother! she exclaimed.
gpt
So you knew, all the time, what the trouble was! She laughed in derision; at herself, chiefly.
human
And I took such pains to keep the truth from you!
gpt
I didn't know, Sally. I only guessed. It's what I have been afraid of for years--the first thing I should have looked for. What else could you expect, with his--
human
Why, Sally, dear! cried her mother.
gpt
I didn't suppose you felt so. Don't, dear. It's nothing that we can help--the wanting to, I mean. And I'm sure you have done more than anybody else could.
human
I don't feel so bad about Charlie. I've done all that I can--now. But it's rather taken it out of me,
gpt
Of course, dear. I wish I were good for anything. I know, she said, laughing nervously, in her turn,
human
she hesitated and flushed.
gpt
I am rather ashamed to say it, but as long as--as your father hasn't turned up, I can't be anything but contented and happy. I find that I've had an absurd feeling--utterly absurd, dear, I know--that he was about to. It's only since you were on the way that that dread has left me and I've felt contented--so happy and contented. The change came with curious suddenness, about the time your train must have left.
human
I'm very glad, mother, she replied in a stifled little voice.
gpt
I'm glad you can feel so happy. There's no need to feel that dread any more, I think. I'm going out now. Don't be worried if I am late.
human
Going to walk, Sally? Mrs. Ladue asked diffidently.
gpt
You had better tell me what direction you will take--in case Fox comes in, you know. He always wants to know your direction if you are at all late.
human
I'm going out to see him, Sally returned.
gpt
I promised to tell him about it.