human
I admire this wheel, said he,
gpt
Why, I never saw those brazen rings before, exclaimed Louis, starting up and joining Clinton, in his study of the instrument.
human
When did you have them put on, Miss Thusa, and what is their use?
gpt
I had them made when I took that long journey, replied Miss Thusa, pushing back the wheel with an air of vexation.
human
It got battered and bruised, and needed something to strengthen it. Those saucy stage drivers made nothing of tossing it from the top of the stage right on the pavement, but the same man never dared to do it but once.
gpt
This must be made of lignum-vitæ, said Clinton,
human
Well, I can't see what there is in an old wheel to attract a young gentleman like you, so! exclaimed Miss Thusa, interposing her tall figure between it and the collegian.
gpt
I don't want Hercules, or any sort of man, to spin at my distaff, I can tell you. It's woman's work, and it's a shame for a man to interfere with it. No, no! it is better for you to ride about the country with your black horse and gold-colored fringes, turning the heads of silly girls and gaping children, than to meddle with an old woman and her wheel.
human
Why, Miss Thusa, what makes you so angry? cried Louis, astonished at the excitement of her manner.
gpt
I never knew you impolite before.
human
I apologise for my own rudeness, said Clinton, with inexpressible grace and ease.
gpt
I was really interested in the subject, and forgot that I might be intrusive. I respect every lady's rights too much to infringe upon them.
human
I don't mean to be rude, replied Miss Thusa, giving her glasses a downward jerk,