human
What do you think of that farce? he exclaimed bitterly.
gpt
You are one of those who must know all about it. Was there ever such madness?
human
I am afraid that I don't understand, Ennison answered.
gpt
You seem to have come from Miss Pellissier's rooms. I had no idea even that she was a friend of yours.
human
Nor am I now, he answered.
gpt
I have spoken too many truths to-night. Why do women take to lies and deceit and trickery as naturally as a duck to water?
human
You are not alluding, I hope, to Miss Pellissier?
gpt
Why not? Isn't the whole thing a lie? Isn't her reputation, this husband of hers, the 'Alcide' business, isn't it all a cursed juggle? She hasn't the right to do it. I----
human
I should like to understand you, he said.
gpt
I knew Miss Pellissier in Paris at the 'Ambassador's,' and I know her now, but I am convinced that there is some mystery in connexion with her change of life. She is curiously altered in many ways. Is there any truth, do you suppose, in this rumoured marriage?
human
I know nothing, Courtlaw answered hurriedly.
gpt
Ask me nothing. I will not talk to you about Miss Pellissier or her affairs.
human
You are not yourself to-night, Courtlaw, Ennison said.
gpt
Come to my rooms and have a drink.
human
I am off to-night, he said.
gpt
I am going to America. I have work there. I ought to have gone long ago. Will you answer me a question first?
human
If I can,
gpt
What were you doing outside Miss Pellissier's flat to-night? You were looking at her windows. Why? What is she to you?
human
I was there by accident, Ennison answered.
gpt
Miss Pellissier is nothing to me except a young lady for whom I have the most profound and respectful admiration.
human
Take my advice, he said hoarsely.
gpt
Call it warning, if you like. Admire her as much as you choose--at a distance. No more. Look at me. You knew me in Paris. David Courtlaw. Well-balanced, sane, wasn't I? You never heard anyone call me a madman? I'm pretty near being one now, and it's her fault. I've loved her for two years, I love her now. And I'm off to America, and if my steamer goes to the bottom of the Atlantic I'll thank the Lord for it.