human
I was a Speciality for about a fortnight, she continued--
gpt
Well, said Mr. Fairfax when Betty paused,
human
I understand that you repent, and you do not repent, and that you are no longer a Speciality.
gpt
That is the case, sir.
human
Can you not take me further into your confidence?
gpt
There is no use,
human
I am not surprised, Miss Vivian, that you are unhappy.
gpt
I am accustomed to that,
human
May I ask what you have come to see me about?
gpt
I wanted to know this: ought I, or ought I not, being unrepentant of my sin, to come to the chapel with the other girls, to kneel with them, to pray with them, and to listen to your words?
human
I must leave that to yourself. If your conscience says, 'Come,' it is not for me to turn you out. But it is a very dangerous thing to trifle with conscience. Of course you know that. I can see, too, that you are peculiarly sensitive. Forgive me, but I have often noticed your face, and with extreme interest. You have good abilities, and a great future before you in the upward direction--that is, if you choose. Although you won't take me into your confidence, I am well aware that the present is a turning-point in your career. You must at least know that I, as a clergyman, would not repeat to any one a word of what you say to me. Can you not trust me?
gpt
No, no; it is too painful! said Betty.
human
I see that, in your heart of hearts, you think that I--I ought not--I ought _not_ to come to chapel. I am indeed outcast!
gpt
No, child, you are not. Kneel down now, and let me pray with you.
human
I cannot stand it--no, I cannot!