human
I have just said to Colonel DeLisle that you would approve of my joining the Legion, Max explained.
gpt
Have I told him the truth?
human
You guessed what I wouldn't let myself say in the train the other day! she exclaimed.
gpt
But--you _haven't_ joined, have you?
human
Not yet, or I shouldn't be here. The Salle d'Honneur is for common soldiers only when they're dead, I presume.
gpt
But you could become an officer some day, couldn't he, father?
human
Yes, replied Colonel DeLisle.
gpt
Every soldier of the Legion has his chance. And our friend is French, I think, from what you've told me of his confidences to you. That gives an extra chance to rise. France--rightly or wrongly, but like all mothers--favours her own sons. Besides, he has been a soldier, which puts him at once ahead of the others.
human
I shouldn't trade on that! I'd rather begin on a level with other men, not ahead of them, Max said hastily.
gpt
My object would be not to teach, but to learn--to cure myself of my faults----
human
We do cure men sometimes, men far more desperate, men with souls far more sick than yours. There's that to be said for us.
gpt
His soul isn't sick at all!
human
Perhaps he thinks it is.
gpt
the girl questioned incredulously.
human
I shall be disappointed if you do.
gpt
Don't be disappointed. I do not think my soul is sick. I want to see how strong it can be, and my body, too. But you mustn't call me 'Mr. Doran' now, please. It isn't my name any more. Colonel DeLisle, may I ask your daughter to choose a name for a new soldier of the Legion? It will be the last favour, for I understand perfectly that after I've joined the regiment, as a private soldier, you can be my friends only at heart. Socially, all intercourse must end.
human
Oh, no, it wouldn't be so, Sanda cried out impulsively, though the old officer was silent.
gpt
It wouldn't, if I were not going away.
human
You are going away?