human
This is Margaret, he said, taking the girl's hand.
gpt
Come into the light, my dear, where you may see me as I am. Your mother has expressed a wish that I should become your guardian. As an old and very dear friend of mine, she has the right to make the request. I am willing and more than willing to meet her wishes, but first I must have your consent.
human
Are you the Mr. Tomlin of whom I have heard my mother speak? Margaret asked, fixing her clear eyes on his face; and when he had answered in the affirmative--
gpt
I wonder that she asked you, after what she has told me. She certainly has no claims on you.
human
Ah, my dear, that is where you are wrong, he insisted.
gpt
I feel that every one in this world has claims on me, especially those who were my friends in old times. It is I who made a mistake, and not your mother; and I should be glad to rectify that mistake now, as far as I can, by carrying out her wishes. You know, of course, that she is very ill; will you go up and speak with her?
human
No, not now; not when there are so many strangers there,
gpt
It shall be as my mother wishes.
human
I hope you will never have cause to regret it,
gpt
She never will,
human
Pulaski is here,
gpt
You remember, Pulaski, the invalid began,
human
No, Margaret, replied Pulaski Tomlin, in a voice that was tremulous and husky.
gpt
She is downstairs; I have just seen her.
human
Well, she has no father according to my way of thinking, Margaret Bridalbin went on.
gpt
Her father is a deserter from the Confederate army. She doesn't know that; I tried to tell her, but my heart failed me. Neither does she know that I have been divorced from him. These things you can tell her when the occasion arises. If I had told her, it would have been like accusing myself. I was responsible--I felt it and feel it--and I simply could not tell her.
human
I shall try to carry out your wishes, Margaret, said Pulaski Tomlin;
gpt
I have seen your daughter, as Fanny suggested, and she has no objection to the arrangement. I shall do all that you desire. She shall be to me a most sacred charge.
human
If you knew how happy you are making me, Pulaski--Oh, I am grateful--grateful!
gpt
There should be no talk of gratitude between you and me, Margaret.