human
Well, Ian Belward, what mischief are you at now?
gpt
A picture merely, and to offer homage. How have you tamed our lion, and how sweetly does he roar! I feed him at my Club to-night.
human
Ian Belward, you are never so wicked as when you ought most to be decent.--I wish I knew your place in this picture,
gpt
Merely a little corner at their fireside.
human
The man has sense, and Delia is my daughter!
gpt
Precisely why I wish a place in their affections.
human
Why don't you marry one of the women you have--spoiled, and spend the rest of your time in living yourself down? You are getting old.
gpt
For their own sakes, I don't. Put that to my credit. I'll have but one mistress only as the sand gets low. I've been true to her.
human
You, true to anything!
gpt
The world has said so.
human
Nonsense! You couldn't be.
gpt
Visit my new picture in three months--my biggest thing. You will say my mistress fares well at my hands.
human
Mere talk. I have seen your mistress, and before every picture I have thought of those women! A thing cannot be good at your price: so don't talk that sentimental stuff to me.
gpt
Be original; you said that to me thirty years ago.
human
I remember perfectly: that did not require much sense.
gpt
No; you tossed it off, as it were. Yet I'd have made you a good husband. You are the most interesting woman I've ever met.
human
The compliment is not remarkable. Now, Ian Belward, don't try to say clever things. And remember that I will have no mischief-making.
gpt
At thy command--
human
Oh, cease acting, and take Sophie to her carriage.