human
Stop that! he shouted, speaking in the bear language.
gpt
Let me go, instantly! What do you mean by such actions?
human
Why didn't you say you were a friend, and could speak my language?
gpt
You knew well enough I was a friend, since I came with the Princess, retorted John, angrily.
human
I suppose you would like to eat me, just because I am gingerbread!
gpt
I thought you smelled like gingerbread, remarked the bear.
human
But don't worry about my eating you. I don't eat.
gpt
No? said John, surprised.
human
Why not?
gpt
Well, the principal reason is that I'm made of rubber,
human
Rubber!
gpt
STOP THAT!
human
Yes, rubber. Not gutta-percha, you understand, nor any cheap composition; but pure Para rubber of the best quality. I'm practically indestructible.
gpt
Well, I declare! said John, who was really astonished.
human
Are your teeth rubber, also?
gpt
To be sure, acknowledged the bear, seeming to be somewhat ashamed of the fact;
human
To me they were terrible in appearance,
gpt
I don't mind confiding to you, who are a friend and speak my language, he resumed,
human
How came you to be alive? asked John.
gpt
Was it the Great Elixir?
human
I've never heard of the Great Elixir, replied the bear,
gpt
No