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Cashel Byron's Profession by George Bernard Shaw
page 99 of 324 (30%)
he turned to greet Alice lie displayed a face expressive of resolute
self-esteem, with eyes whose watery brightness, together with the
bareness of his temples, from which the hair was worn away,
suggested late hours and either very studious or very dissipated
habits. He advanced confidently, pressed Alice's hand warmly for
several seconds, and placed a chair for her, without noticing the
marked coldness with which she received his attentions.

"I was surprised, Alice," he said, when he had seated himself
opposite to her, "to learn from Aunt Emily that you had come to live
here without consulting me. I--"

"Consult you!" she said, contemptuously, interrupting him. "I never
heard of such a thing! Why should I consult you as to my movements?"

"Well, I should not have used the word consult, particularly to
such an independent little lady as sweet Alice Goff. Still, I think
you might--merely as a matter of form, you know--have informed me of
the step you were taking. The relations that exist between us give
me a right to your confidence."

"What relations, pray?"

"What relations!" he repeated, with reproachful emphasis.

"Yes. What relations?"

He rose, and addressed her with tender solemnity. "Alice," he began;
"I have proposed to you at least six times--"

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