human
I really wish you would be reconciled with my father,
gpt
M. Aksakoff is less willing for such a consummation than I, mademoiselle.
human
You are wrong. My father is willing, but your enemies are not.
gpt
And my enemies are his enemies?
human
Assuredly. But one enemy--Paul Petrovitch--is my friend.
gpt
Your cousin.
human
He has, as you know, much influence with the Czar.
gpt
If what?
human
If I agreed to marry him.
gpt
Mademoiselle, said he, gravely,
human
I cut myself off from my princely family, and surrendered wealth that I might work in the cause of humanity. To assist a brother worker did I risk exile, with the result you behold. Why, then, should I demand a sacrifice on your part, to restore that which I personally do not regret?
gpt
Believe me, my friend, it would mean no sacrifice. You hinted when last we met that you were prepared to consider the proposition of resuming your rank.
human
I did--contingent on certain events happening, replied Demetrius, thinking that if Lady Jim insisted upon being a princess of the drawing-rooms, he would be forced to yield;
gpt
recalling the necessary period of mourning.
human
No, there is no hurry! He paused, then questioned suddenly,
gpt
You love Paul Petrovitch?
human
No, no! Ah, no!
gpt
It would, then, certainly be a sacrifice for you to marry him.
human
I would never do that.
gpt
How, then, could you persuade him to use his influence?
human
It is a case of diamond cut diamond, explained Katinka, with the indifference of a woman to all other honour, save that of the man she loves.
gpt
Paul Petrovitch wishes to marry me. If I agree, he will induce the Czar to reinstate you in your possessions. When you have made your peace at St. Petersburg, I could refuse to---- Oh! she broke off with a confused laugh,
human
I am far from being shocked, denied the liberal-minded doctor;
gpt
Lies in lending myself to such a trick. I make it for you--for you; yes, do you not understand?
human
I am not worthy,
gpt
she breathed tenderly.
human
Will you not permit me to prove my belief?
gpt
I shall be honoured, if--in a few months--the time is scarcely ripe for me to move; and you will understand. In short, when things are different--your noble offer--we can discuss it later. Believe me --he thrilled her with a light touch--
human
I comprehend the nobility of your nature. Ah, my friend, do not press me to take advantage of so glorious a sacrifice.