human
I wonder how soon we are going to be attracted,
gpt
What do you mean by that?
human
Why, we were waiting, weren’t we, for one of these side shows to tempt us beyond the point of resistance,
gpt
Well, to tell the truth I had forgotten what we were doing beyond sauntering together in this very interesting, motley crowd. Isn’t it strange how completely alone we are in such a place?
human
Or might be, if it were not for the wheeled chairs, said Clover.
gpt
It isn’t safe to become introspective here.
human
Was I? anxiously.
gpt
Have I been silent, Mrs. Van Tassel? My thoughts often play me tricks. Hilda is always saying that I am ’queer.’ I don’t know just what she means, but if you would be kind enough to mention it if I do anything you don’t like, I should be—it would be a great favor.
human
You are very flattering, returned Clover, turning away to smile.
gpt
What a temptation you offer me!
human
Then I do offend you?
gpt
No, no, I didn’t mean that. I was only thinking what a temptation you hold out to a woman to mould a fellow-creature into the form she likes. But I know what an ignis fatuus that alluring idea is. Men do not alter themselves to please women.
human
I should say, returned Page ruminatively,
gpt
By the force of years of influence, yes; but your brother did not know what was going on. I am certain of that.
human
I should suppose, said Page earnestly,
gpt
Yes, you would suppose so, agreed Clover.
human
My knowledge of the truth is gathered from observation, not experience, as you know. I reverenced Mr. Van Tassel too completely to think of desiring to change him. In my married life it was myself I wished to alter; but I have seen a good deal of young married people, and—well, tell me, Mr. Page, did you ever hear Hilda say that she would be glad if her husband did not smoke?
gpt
Yes,
human
Now I begin to feel a strong temptation, Mr. Page. How is it with you? Are you prepared to resist the Javanese village?
gpt
I have not been in there.
human
Oh, you mustn’t miss that. I wonder you have been able to pass that charming, fantastic, bamboo entrance. The lightness and simplicity of this life makes it to me the most charming in the Plaisance.