human
You profess to love Uncle John, and yet you would disappoint his cherished hope!
gpt
Is it his cherished hope?
human
There is no doubt about it. He has spoken to me more than once on the subject. Feeling that his end is near, he wishes to leave you in charge of a protector.
gpt
I can protect myself,
human
You think so. You do not consider the hapless lot of a penniless girl in a cold and selfish world.
gpt
Penniless?
human
Yes, penniless. Our uncle's bequest to you is conditional upon your acceptance of my hand.
gpt
Has he said this?
human
He has told me so more than once, returned Curtis, smoothly.
gpt
You don't know how near to his heart this marriage is. I know what you would say: If the property comes to me I could come to your assistance, but I am expressly prohibited from doing so. I have pleaded with my uncle in your behalf, but in vain.
human
If my uncle's heart is hardened against me, she said,
gpt
I shall be too wise to turn to you. I am to understand, then, that my choice lies between poverty and a union with you?
human
You have stated it correctly, Florence.
gpt
Then, said Florence, arising,
human
I will not hesitate. I shrink from poverty, for I have been reared in luxury, but I will sooner live in a hovel--
gpt
Or a tenement house,
human
Yes, or a tenement house, than become the wife of one I loathe.
gpt
Girl, you shall bitterly repent that word!