And
you've denied me the consolation of breaking down.
you've denied me the consolation of breaking down.
Kipling - Poems
Mrs. H. Oh, no, not in the least. But they really ought to have punkahs,
even in your cool Naini Tal, oughtn't they? (Turns, dropping fan and
raising eyebrows. )
Capt. G. It's all right. (Aside. ) Here comes the storm!
Mrs. H. (Her eyes on the tablecloth: fan ready in right hand. ) It was
very cleverly managed, Pip, and I congratulate you. You swore--you never
contented yourself with merely Saying a thing--you swore that, as far
as lay in your power, you'd make my wretched life pleasant for me.
And
you've denied me the consolation of breaking down. I should have
done it--indeed I should. A woman would hardly have thought of this
refinement, my kind, considerate friend. (Fan-guard as before. ) You have
explained things so tenderly and truthfully, too! You haven't spoken or
written a word of warning, and you have let me believe in you till the
last minute. You haven't condescended to give me your reason yet. No!
A woman could not have managed it half so well. Are there many men like
you in the world?
Capt. G. I'm sure I don't know. (To Khitmatgar. ) Ohe! Simpkin do.