human
I am waiting for my answer,
gpt
We have both of us omitted to remember where courtesy is first due. Madam, I should have informed myself of your pleasure in this matter.
human
No, oh no!
gpt
Yet I must ask you to reconsider; nay, even to use what arts you possess to induce this short-sighted young gentleman to accept my generous proposition. For, mind you, there is a consequent upon his refusal--and yours.
human
A consequent--of course. And it is----
gpt
A lofty one. He mounts either to Dom Gillian's chair or to the yard arm of the _Black Swan_. A spy's death for a spy--it is but justice.
human
Surely it were shame enough for any woman to find herself made part of such a bargain. But my humiliation goes even deeper, for I must parade my poor wares before you like any huckster, beseeching you to buy. My lord, it is for your life, and I am but a flower that it may please you to wear to-day and cast aside to-morrow. Buy of me, my lord, and at what price you will--it is for your life. But be quick; he will not wait over-long. She plucked at his sleeve.
gpt
Do you not understand? The men are coming; you can hear the rattle of the sheaf-blocks at the mast-head of the galley--Constans!
human
I am ready,