Cashel Byron's Profession by George Bernard Shaw
page 99 of 324 (30%)
page 99 of 324 (30%)
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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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