human
I don't know what sort of a path there may be,
gpt
But I do, said Jack with a happy smile.
human
If you'll really come, I can take you quite safely; the rain has stopped. Will you and Miss Penington go in front and I'll direct you.
gpt
I should have thought the shortest plan would have been for you to go in front yourself,
human
You have thick shoes, I hope?
gpt
Look! And she held up a pretty foot well protected. Phillis's spirits were rising every moment, in spite of the wild scene all about them. The path was very wet and rough; once or twice he put out his hand to help her. Perhaps the little action brought back to her mind another rough road when he had helped, not her, but Bice, for she said suddenly,
human
I want to ask you a question; but you needn't answer it unless you like.
gpt
That is very considerate,
human
Do you know the end of Mrs Masters's debts?
gpt
Yes, I do. That is, I know they've been paid. Do you expect this to be the end?
human
Oh, well, for the present. But who paid them? He hesitated.
gpt
I don't believe it's a secret, he said presently,
human
Then he suddenly turned and looked down into her face.
gpt
Did you really suppose it was I?
human
Why not? she persisted.
gpt
Why not you as well as another?
human
I think I shall avail myself of your means of escape, and refuse to answer the question, said Jack with gravity.
gpt
I can't afford to lose my one opportunity of being considered a _preux chevalier_.
human
But, Jack!
gpt
But, Phillis!
human
Was it really not you?