human
Ma petite, DeLisle said, with a quiver in his voice that echoed up from heartstrings swept by some spirit hand.
gpt
Can it be true? You have come--across half the world, to me?
human
Oh, father, yes, it is true. And always I've wanted to come. Sanda's voice caressed him. No man could have resisted her then.
gpt
You're not angry?
human
Mon Dieu, no, I'm not angry, though my life is not the life for a girl. I only--for a moment I thought I saw----
gpt
I know, I guessed, Sanda gently filled up his pause.
human
Since I began growing into a woman every one told me I was like--her. But I wouldn't send you a photograph. For years I've planned to surprise you--and make you _care_ a little, if I could.
gpt
Care! he echoed, a look as of anguish passing over his face like the shadow of a cloud; then leaving it clear, though sad with the habitual sadness which had scored its many lines.
human
You have surprised me, indeed. But---- He stopped abruptly, and apparently for the first time noticed the young man standing near. Stiffening slightly, Colonel DeLisle looked keenly at Max, his eyes trying to solve the new puzzle.
gpt
But--my daughter, you have come to me with----
human
Only a friend, Sanda broke in desperately, blushing up to her bright hair.
gpt
A kind friend, Mr. Doran, an American who had to travel to Sidi-bel-Abbés on business of his own, and who's been more good to me than I can describe. I want him to let me tell you all about him, and then you will understand.
human
I thank you in advance, Monsieur,