human
You should not be walking here, Mrs. Winthrop, he said as he came up;
gpt
It is wet; but I am going now. You have been at Miolans?
human
Yes. I saw my aunt. She told me you were out riding somewhere. I thought perhaps you might be here.
gpt
Is that all she told you?
human
I think so. No; she did say that you were fond of autumn in the country. So am I. Wouldn't it be wise to stop at the old man's cottage, before remounting, and dry your shoes a little?
gpt
I never take cold.
human
Perhaps we could find a pair in the village that you could wear.
gpt
It is not necessary. I will ride rapidly; the exercise will be the best safeguard.
human
Do you know why I have come back?
gpt
I do not,
human
I have come back, Katharine, to tell you plainly and humbly that I love you. This time I make no conditions; I have none to make. Do with me as you please; I must bear it. But believe that I love you with all my heart. It has been against my will; I have not been willing to admit it to myself; but of late the certainty has forced itself upon me so overwhelmingly that I had no resource left save to come to you. I am full of faults; but--I love you. I have said many things that displeased you deeply; but--I love you. Do not deliberate. Send me away--if go I must--now. Keep me--if you will keep me--now. You can punish me afterwards.
gpt
It is a real love I offer you, he said, in a low tone. Then, as still she did not speak,
human
I will make you very happy, Katharine,
gpt
You are always so sure!
human
Let him laugh who wins,