Canon 17-55mm f2.8 or a 24-105 F4 L

I have looked over the forum and didn't fine somethink similar.

I am about to buy a new and better lens for my 7D. I would like either the 17-55mm f2.8 or a 24-105 F4 L. will use it as a all-time lens. Will it be better to have a faster lens rather than a longer focal?

i would like the 2.8 opening but i would also like the f4 L all-around capabilities.
what i am interested in is to make good portrait in almost all circumstances.

(please do not tell me to buy a prime like 50F1.4 or 85f1.8 and another one with variable focal, because i have no money for both, so i would have to decide on one of those.)
Thank you very ,much for any help.
George.A