human
And you ought to be ashamed of yourself, cried Doctor Stephen growing more and more excited;
gpt
With the _pen_, he said slowly.
human
The pen must always fall into disrepute when the moment demands deeds. With all my knowledge and abilities, I stand below Frederick, who, with a pair of vigorous arms, can fight for the Fatherland. At the highest, I can die for it, and for this, I must still thank your surgeon-in-chief; he, at least, has lifted from me the curse of being only _a hero of the pen_!
gpt
If I only knew how all at once you have become possessed of such terrible bitterness! This sounds as if some one had given you a deadly insult in these words. I tell you your whole nature is changed.
human
I entirely forget what brings me to you, he said evasively.
gpt
They leave us little time; we must return to H. this evening, for we are ordered to march early to-morrow morning. I would request you to take my rooms and my library under your care. In case of my death, you can dispose of the former as you think best; the latter must go to the university; it contains many valuable books, a large share of which I have inherited.
human
Yes, and if a formal testament is to be made, interposed the doctor,
gpt
I beg you give me the address of your relatives, so that I may be prepared for any emergency. Hitherto, I have made no inquiries concerning them; you have maintained such a strict secrecy in regard to your family affairs.
human
Secrecy! I had nothing to conceal. I have no relatives.
gpt
What! not a single one?
human
Not one; I stand entirely alone in the world.
gpt
I must now bid you farewell. I have much to arrange, but I will see you again this evening.