human
How did you know? he queried curiously.
gpt
It does change things; it has changed them fiercely in the past few weeks. We smile at the old fable of a man selling his soul for a ready-money consideration, but there are times when I'd sell anything I've got, save one, for a chance at the freedom that other men have--and don't value.
human
What is the one thing you wouldn't sell?
gpt
My love for the--for some woman. I'm saving that, you know. It is the only capital I'll have when the big debt is paid.
human
Do you want me to be frivolous or serious? she asked, looking down at him with the grimacing little smile that always reminded him of a caress.
gpt
A little while ago you said 'some woman,' and now you say it again, making it cautiously impersonal. That is nice of you--not to particularize; but I have been wondering whether she is or isn't worth the effort--and the reservation you make. Because it is all in that, you know. You can do and be what you want to do and be if you only want to hard enough.
human
Do you really believe that? What about a man's natural limitations?
gpt
Poof! she said, blowing the word away as if it were a bit of thistle-down.
human
It is only the woman's limitations that count, not the man's. The only question is this: Is the one only and incomparable she worth the effort? Would you give a hundred thousand dollars for the privilege of being able to say to her: 'Come, dear, let's go and get married'?
gpt
She is worth it many times over; her price is above rubies. Money, much or little, wouldn't be in it.
human
That is better--much better. Now we may go on to the ways and means; they are all in the man, not in the things, 'not none whatsoever,' as Tig would say. Let me show you what I mean. Three times within my recollection my father has been worth considerably more than you owe, and three time she has--well, it's gone. And now he is going to make good again when the railroad comes.