But once or twice you have told me that I have helped you--through difficult places.

That makes me dare to ask you this thing.

There is no one else I can ask.

And it won't be bad for you, Philip,--it is good for us all, to have to think intimately--seriously--for some other human being or beings; and owing to circumstances, not your own fault, you have missed just this in life--except for your thoughts and care for me--bless you always, my dear friend.
"Am I preaching?
Well, in my case the time for make-believe is over.

I am too near the end.