human
No, he said at last,
gpt
I do not need you.
human
I do not need you, he repeated steadily,
gpt
Never, Stefan. Even in my unthinking school-days, even in that strange time after I lost my babies and could not write to you, I have counted upon you always. Everything that has come to me, good or bad, big or little, I have shared with you in my thoughts. Only--I did not realize it.
human
That, he said quietly,
gpt
You kept away too long, Stefan!
human
I know. But what does it matter? He spoke half to himself, with his little shrug.
gpt
This manifestation or the next--we shall not be apart always.
human
No, no! she cried, catching at his hand.
gpt
That is too ethereal, too mystic for me--I can't bear it, Stefan! I want the people I love with me _now_, in this 'manifestation,' as you call it, where I can talk with them, and touch them, and hold on to them--I am not all spirit. I thought I was, but--I'm not. Oh, my dear, aren't you human _at all_?
human
Forgive me! she whispered.
gpt
I will try to climb up to you--since you will not come down to me.... But you must help me.
human
I will help,