human
Precisely, he continued.
gpt
We have never been intimate. The reason why we have not been intimate is one of the reasons why I am more attached to you than you have ever guessed.
human
That is complicated, said Francesca, with a smile.
gpt
Perhaps the other reason may be simpler.
human
It is very simple, very simple indeed, though it will not seem natural to you. You are the only very good woman I ever knew, who made me feel that she was good instead of making me see it. Perhaps you think it unnatural that I should be attracted by goodness at all. But I am not very bad, as men go.
gpt
No. I do not believe you are. And I am not so good as you think.
human
You are much better than I once thought, answered Lord Redin.
gpt
Once upon a time--well, I should only offend you, and I know better now. Forgive me for thinking of it. I wish to tell you something else.
human
If it is something which has been your secret, it is better not told, said Francesca, quietly.
gpt
One rarely makes a confidence that one does not regret it.
human
You are a wise woman. He looked at her thoughtfully.
gpt
And yet you must be very young.
human
No. But though I have had my own life apart, I have lived outwardly very much in the world, although I am still young. Most of the secrets which have been told me have been repeated to me by the people in whom others had confided.
gpt
All that is true, he answered.
human
Nevertheless-- He paused.
gpt
I am desperate! he exclaimed, with sudden energy.
human
I cannot bear this any longer--I am alone, always, always. Sometimes I think I shall go mad! You do not know what a life I lead. I have not even a vice to comfort me! He laughed low and savagely.
gpt
I tried to drink, but I am sick of it--it does no good! A man who has not even a vice is a very lonely man.