human
Sit down, dear. Come close to the fire, your hands feel cold, she said, pushing me gently into an easy chair, and poking the coals into a blaze.
gpt
You and I want a little talk to each other, I think, and we shall be quite uninterrupted here. My poor boy has told me of his disappointment, but, indeed, he did not need to tell me. I could see what had happened by his face. I am very disappointed, too. I thought he would have very different news to tell me, and I should have been very happy to welcome you as a daughter. We have known you by name for so many years that you did not seem like a stranger even when you first arrived, and we have been very happy together these five weeks--
human
Oh, very happy! I have had a lovely time. I shall never forget how happy I have been.
gpt
Then if you have been so happy, I do not see why-- Let us speak out, dear, and understand each other thoroughly. My boy and I have always been close friends, and if I am to be of help or comfort to him now I must understand how this trouble has come about. Wallace is not conceited--he has a very modest estimation of his own merits, but he seems to have expected a different answer. Sometimes in these affairs young people misunderstand each other, and little sorenesses arise, which a few outspoken words can smooth away. If I could act as peacemaker between you two, I should be very thankful. My children's happiness is my first consideration nowadays. If there is anything I can do, just tell me honestly. Speak out as you would to your own mother.
human
No, there is nothing--we have had no quarrels. I like Wallace very much, oh, very much indeed, but not--I could never--I couldn't be anything more than his friend.
gpt
Is there then someone else whom you care for?
human
Una!