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Will Warburton by George Gissing
page 78 of 347 (22%)
"It only shows," she said with some abruptness, "that I shall do
better not to speak of it at all, and let people think what they
like of me. If even _you_ can't understand."

Bertha stood still, and spoke in a changed voice.

"I understand very well--or think I do. I'm perfectly sure that
you could never have broken your engagement unless for the gravest
reason--and for me it is quite enough to know that. Many a girl
ought to do this, who never has the courage. Try not to worry about
explanations, the thing is done, and there's an end of it. I'm very
glad indeed you're going quite away; it's the best thing possible.
When do you start?" she added.

"In three days.--Listen, Bertha, I have something very serious to
ask of you. It is possible--isn't it?--that he may come to see
you some day. If he does, or if by chance you see him alone, and if
he speaks of me, I want you to make him think--you easily can--
that what has happened is all for his good. Remind him how often
artists have been spoilt by marriage, and hint--you surely could
--that I am rather too fond of luxury, and that kind of thing."

Bertha wore an odd smile.

"Trust me," she replied, "I will blacken you most effectually."

"You promise? But, at the same time, you will urge him to be true to
himself, to endure poverty--"

"I don't know about that. Why shouldn't poor Mr. Franks have enough
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