human
That's Ash Garth, with Janet Harding on the steps! Where did you get them? What does it mean?
gpt
I think it's quite plain, Mrs. Mowbray said.
human
Beatrice is engaged to Basil Harding's son.
gpt
Why was I not told before? Mowbray asked excitedly.
human
He's as well born as you are! Can't you see how it alters things?
gpt
Craig declares it makes no difference--and I'm beginning to agree with him.
human
That's absurd! Mowbray exclaimed.
gpt
False pride; mistaken sentiment! We know the advantage of springing from a good stock. Now I understand why I sometimes felt a curious sympathy with Harding, even when I hated his opinions.
human
You gave us no reason to suspect it, Beatrice answered with a smile.
gpt
Do you know his father's history?
human
Yes; but I don't know that I ought to tell it without his son's permission.
gpt
Then we'll wait, said Beatrice.
human
Craig will be here soon.
gpt
Your father was a comrade of mine, the Colonel said.
human
We were both stationed at an outpost in Northern India.
gpt
Then you may be able to tell me something about his early life, replied Harding quietly.
human
It's a subject he never spoke of.
gpt
I can do so. Are you willing that Beatrice and her mother should hear?
human
Yes; I don't wish to hide anything from them.