human
And can you say that you have loved no other?
gpt
I can indeed, he replied, while a half, well pleased smile, stole over his countenance.
human
In all my wanderings, no other image but yours has accompanied me, and much as I tried to banish it, it has been unrivalled.
gpt
I do not speak of your wanderings,
human
Oh! I see, you mean your cousin. No: I honestly tell you, that I have never been led, even by the many petty plots by which I have been surrounded, to do anything which could place my conduct, with regard to her, in a doubtful light. Had I done so, I should have grieved deeply; and such a heartless act would have been a canker in my present enjoyment. I do own, that when I saw you thought so, I did not undeceive you, because I was anxious to see how you would act under an impression, which so often brings out evil, if any exists; but if you knew how much of our future happiness was at stake, you would forgive me for placing it beyond a doubt, that you were the same self-devoted, noble girl, who could refuse all that I had to offer, when her conscience called on her to do so.
gpt
But forgive me, persisted Mabel,
human
Well, said Hargrave, as they now walked on side by side,
gpt
I think I can explain that too. You know that when you were at Aston Manor, I could not be there, and wanted some plausible excuse for remaining away; no better offered, and every thing was done to induce me to remain in Bath; but I suppose you will not be quite satisfied till I tell you, that when, after a visit of a few days, I was pressed to remain, I agreed, only on condition that I should be allowed to pay for the extra expense, which my prolonged stay might cause; you will believe that I have done this in no grudging manner. And besides, the game and venison from Aston, and other luxuries of the kind, have been always at your Aunt's command. As I knew that I had a secret motive to serve, by remaining here, I felt that I could do no less with any satisfaction to myself. I do not think your cousins or uncle knew of this agreement, but Mrs. Villars regarded it as a whim of mine, and said if I liked to increase her pin-money, I might. Are you satisfied love?
human
Quite,
gpt
I do not think, however, that I shall remain here beyond to-day--with them, I mean--for my popularity is gone--and my temper would be sorely tried, for little purpose--so I have taken rooms at the Lion. Besides, I have another purpose to serve, by remaining there, as it is near the Abbey--and I should like to be married there.
human
Yes--but--
gpt
Yes--but-- repeated Hargrave, smiling on his blushing companion;
human
Do you remember, he said, gently,
gpt
So soon?
human
Nay, if you love me--why should you hesitate? I am sure you will not.