human
It is very painful to me--this conduct of Florence's, Curtis,
gpt
I understand it fully, uncle, said Curtis.
human
When I think of it, it makes me very angry with the misguided girl.
gpt
Perhaps I have been too harsh--too stern!
human
You, uncle, too harsh! Why, you are the soul of gentleness. Florence has shown herself very ungrateful.
gpt
Yet, Curtis, I love that girl. Her mother seemed to live again in her. Have I not acted cruelly in requiring her to obey me or leave the house?
human
You have acted only for good. You are seeking her happiness.
gpt
You really think this, Curtis?
human
I am sure of it.
gpt
But how will it all end?
human
By Florence yielding.
gpt
You are sure of that?
human
Yes. Listen, uncle; Florence is only capricious, like most girls of her age. She foolishly desires to have her own way. It is nothing more serious, I can assure you.
gpt
But she has left the house. That seems to show that she is in earnest.
human
She thinks, uncle, that by doing so she can bend you to her wishes. She hasn't the slightest idea of any permanent separation. She is merely experimenting upon your weakness. She expects you will recall her in a week, at the latest. That is all of it.
gpt
You think that?
human
I have no doubt of it.
gpt
She shall find that I am resolute, he said, irritably.
human
I will not recall her.
gpt
Bravo, uncle! Only stick to that, and she will yield unconditionally within a fortnight. A little patience, and you will carry your point. Then all will be smooth sailing.
human
I hope so, Curtis. Your words have cheered me. I will be patient. But I hope I shan't have to wait long. Where is the morning paper?
gpt
I shall have to humor and deceive him, thought Curtis.
human
I shall have a difficult part to play, but I am sure to succeed at last.