human
I like Jim Carstairs, I said sturdily.
gpt
I hope some day I may have someone to care for me as he does for you, Vere. It must be a lovely feeling. He has been in such distress about you, and on that night-- that awful night--I shall never forget his face--
human
Ah, you have an inconvenient memory, Babs! It was always your failing. For my part I mean to forget all about it as soon as possible. You were very good and brave, by the way, and, I am afraid, hurt your foot in trying to save me. I would rather not return to the subject, so I will just thank you once and for all, and express my gratitude. You practically saved my life. Think of it! If it had not been for you I should not have had a chance of lying here now, or riding about in my fine new chair!
gpt
Vere, _don't_! don't sneer! I cried hotly, for the mask had slipped for a moment, and I had caught a glimpse of the bitter rebellion hidden beneath the smile.
human
It is awful for you--we are all wretched about it; but there is hope still, and the doctor says you will get better if only you will give yourself a chance. Why do you pretend? why smile and make fun when all the time--oh, I know it, I know it quite well--your heart is breaking!
gpt
Would you prefer me to weep and wail? You have known me all your life; can you imagine me--Vere Sackville--lying about with red eyes and a swollen face, posing as an object of pity? Can you imagine me allowing myself to be pitied?
human
Not pitied, perhaps--no one likes that; but if people love you, and sympathise--
gpt
Bah! She flicked her eyelids impatiently. I realised at that moment that she could not move her head, and it gave me a keener realisation of her state than I had had before.
human
Bah! It is all the same. I want nothing from my friends now that they did not give me a month ago. If I have to be on my back instead of walking about, it is no affair of theirs. I neither ask nor desire their commiseration. The kindest thing they can do is to leave me alone.