human
You're just tired and depressed, I said, at last, trying to lie, even to myself.
gpt
It will soon pass off, and then . . .
human
No, George! . . . It will get gradually worse--until I'm old again, and . . . back where I started. . . .
gpt
But . . . Gran'pa? I stammered.
human
He's an exception, she answered, with astonishing calmness.
gpt
I felt it all along. That is why I hesitated so at the very first. It's not the glands which have made such a difference to him, but his faith--the sort of wonderful faith that moves mountains, George. He's been like that all his life--an American, through and through. Everything he put his hand to--and believed in--he accomplished. I'm sure that anything is possible if only one has real faith. . . .
human
I haven't got it! she added, wistfully.
gpt
I've always been shrinking back from things--afraid of anything new. Perhaps that is why I never married. . . . When your grandfather came, after all those years, still full of fire . . . I was carried away. I tried, oh, so hard, to believe in him, and in myself. But I've found that it is too late to alter my disposition. I haven't the faith. I'm still shrinking--doubtful--timid. . . .
human
Come back to Richmond with me, I suggested.
gpt
Molly will soon pull you round. You're brooding here.
human
No! she said.
gpt
I'm not unhappy. It's just the . . . sudden change. In a short time I shall be my old self again. Don't think me ungrateful, George, but the last twelve months have not been _natural_. I don't seem to have had a moment's rest. All the bustle and hurry have unnerved me. I feel more contented, now that it is over and done with. . . .
human
Young people can never understand that it's no hardship to be old--if one is still well. It all happens so gradually. Nature is kind. It is only her children who make life so difficult!
gpt
Look what I've done!