The Age of Innocence《純真年代》精講之二

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Ellen: Mr. Archer. So how do you like this odd little house? To me, it's like heaven.

Newland: You've arranged it delightfully.

Ellen: Yes. Some of the things I managed to bring with me. Little pieces of wreckage. At least it's lessgloomy than the van der Luydens'...and not so difficult to be alone.

Newland: I'm sure it's often thought the van der Luydens' is gloomy though I've never heard it said before. Tell me, do you really like to be alone?

Ellen: As long as my friends keep me from being lonely. I see you've already chosen your corner. Please, sit.

Newland: Thank you.

Ellen: This is the hour I like best. Don't you?

Newland: I was afraid you'd forgotten the hour. I'm sure Beaufort can be very intriguing.

Ellen: He took me to see some houses. I'm told I must move, even though this street seems perfectly respectable.

Newland: Yes, but it's not fashionable.

Ellen: Fashionable? Is fashion such a serious consideration?

Newland: Among people who have nothing more serious to consider.

Ellen: Perhaps I've been too independent. All I really want is to feel cared for and safe.

Newland: Thank you. The van der Luydens do nothing by halves. All New York laid itself out for you last night.

Ellen: It was so kind. Such a nice party. Cream or lemon?

Newland: Lemon, please. The van der Luydens are the most powerful influence in New York society. They very seldom receive because of Cousin Louisa's health.

Ellen: Perhaps that's the reason then.

Newland: Thank you. The reason?

Ellen: For their influence. They make themselves so rare. But of course you must tell me.

Newland: No, it's you telling me. Thank you.

Ellen: Then we can both help each other. But I need help so much more.

Newland: There are so many people already...to tell you what to do.

Ellen: I think they're all a little angry with me for setting up for myself.

Newland: Still, your family can advise you, show you the way.

Ellen: Is New York such a labyrinth? I thought it was all straight up and down, like 5th Avenue. All the cross streets numbered and big honest labels on everything.

Newland: Everything is labeled, but everybody is not.

Ellen: Then I must count on you for warnings too.

Newland: All the older women like and admire you. They want to help.

Ellen: I know, I know. As long as they don't hear anything unpleasant. Does no one here want to know the truth, Mr. Archer? The real loneliness is living among all these kind people who only ask you to pretend.

Newland: No, you mustn't. Madame Olenska. Ellen.

Ellen: Does no one cry here, either? I suppose there's no need to.

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Storekeeper: Oh, Mr. Archer, good evening. We didn't see you this morning and we weren't sure whether to send Miss Welland the usual...

Newland: Lilies of the valley. Yes, let's make that a standing order.

Storekeeper: Very good, sir.

Newland: And those yellow roses. I'll give you another address.

Storekeeper: Very good. George. Mr. Archer. Two separate orders.

Newland: They'll go at once?

Storekeeper: At once, sir.

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May: It's wonderful to wake up every morning with lilies of the valley in my room. It's like being with you.

Newland: They came late yesterday, I know. Somehow the time got away from me.

May: Still, you always remember.

Newland: I sent some roses to Cousin Ellen too. Was that right?

May: Very right. She didn't mention it at lunch today, though. She said she got some wonderful orchids from Mr. Beaufort and a hamper of carnations from Henry van der Luyden. She was so very delighted. Don't people send flowers in Europe? I know you do consider it a long time.

Newland: Very long.

May: But the Chivers were engaged for a year and a half, the Lefferts engaged for two. I’m sure Mama expects something customary.

Newland: Ever since you were little, your parents let you have your way. You're almost 22. Just tell your mother what you want.

May: I couldn’t refuse her the very last thing she'd ever ask of me as a little girl.

Newland: Can't we juststrike out for ourselves, May?

May: Shall we elope?

Newland: If you would, why not?

May: You do love me, Newland. I'm so happy.

Newland: Well, why not be happier?

May: I couldn't be happier, dearest. I tell you, I showed Ellen the ring. She thought it was the most beautiful setting she ever saw. She said there was nothing like it in the Rue de la Paix. I do love you, Newland. Everything you do is so special.