“Send you straight back to where you came from, in a cab. No, I wouldn't; I'd let you walk. But you couldn't do it, dear. And I wouldn't run the risk. You're worth waiting for till you can come without reservation.”
“Do you honestly believe that?”
“I have a hazy sort of idea that I do. Has it never struck you in that light?”
“Ye—es. I feel so wicked about it.”
“Wickeder than usual?”
“You don't know all I think. It's almost too awful to tell.”
“Never mind. You promised to tell me the truth—at least.”
“It's so ungrateful of me, but—but, though I know you care for me, and I like to have you with me, I'd—I'd even sacrifice you, if that would bring me what I want.”
“My poor little darling! I know that state of mind. It doesn't lead to good work.”
“You aren't angry? Remember, I do despise myself.”