human
Even that would go a long way with me, if I could get nothing better, he declared.
gpt
Besides, you might change. I could surround you with some comfort; I think I could promise not to force my company upon you; I believe I could be kind.
human
Yes, assented Evelyn.
gpt
I shouldn't be afraid of harshness from you; but it seems impossible that I should change. You must see that you started handicapped from the beginning. Had I been free to choose, it might have been different, but I have lived for some time in shame and fear, hating the thought that some one would be forced on me.
human
Must I tell you? You are the man!
gpt
If you don't hate me for it now, I'm willing to take the risk, he said at length.
human
It will be my fault if you hate me in the future; I'll try not to deserve it.
gpt
No. Love on one side may go a long way, if it is strong enough--but it must be strong to overcome the many clashes of thought and will. Yours --she looked at him steadily--
human
You are the only woman I ever wished to marry,
gpt
What can I say to convince you?
human
I'm afraid it's impossible. If you had wanted me greatly, you would have pressed the claim you had in saving Mopsy, and I should have forgiven you that; you would have urged any and every claim. As it is, I suppose I am pretty --her lips curled scornfully--