Women in Love by D H Lawrence Chapter 2 Page 33

‘But what do you mean by being himself?’ said Gerald. ‘Is that an aphorism or a cliche?’

‘I mean just doing what you want to do. I think it was perfect good form in Laura to bolt from Lupton to the church door. It was almost a masterpiece in good form. It’s the hardest thing in the world to act spontaneously on one’s impulses — and it’s the only really gentlemanly thing to do — provided you’re fit to do it.’

‘You don’t expect me to take you seriously, do you?’ asked Gerald.

‘Yes, Gerald, you’re one of the very few people I do expect that of.’

‘Then I’m afraid I can’t come up to your expectations here, at any rate. You think people should just do as they like.’