Although Mr Carton visited Dr Manette's house quite often, he usually said very little when he was there. One day in August he arrived when Dr Manette was out and he was received by Lucie. She had always been a little shy with him, but on that day she noticed something different in his face.
'Aren't you well, Mr Carton' she asked.
'No, probably not, Miss Manette, but my way of life is not good for my health.'
'That seems sad, ' said Lucie gently.'Why do you not change your way of life'
'It's too late for that. I shall never be better than I am. But, Miss Manette, there is something that I want to say to you, but I find it so difficult. Will you listen to me'
'If it will help you, Mr Carton, I will be happy to listen to you, ' said Lucie, but she was pale and trembling.
'Miss Manette, I know that you could never have feelings of love for me, a man who has spent his life so badly.'
'Even without my love, Mr Carton, can I not save you, Can I not help you'
'No, Miss Manette, ' said Carton.'Even if it was possible for you to love me, it is too late for me. I would only make you sad, and destroy your life. But it has been a last dream of my heart. To see you and your father together, to see the home that you have made for him—this has brought back old and happier memories for me.'