human
My!
gpt
What is it, dear?
human
A big water-rat!
gpt
So 'tis. I don't blame him for wishing to have a look at you.
human
He ain't afraid, said Alfred;
gpt
Don't move! What bright eyes he has, to be sure.
human
No brighter than others I know.
gpt
Shush-h-h! There! He's gone. I wanted to see him stroke his whiskers. I wonder whether he be a gentleman rat or a lady rat?
human
He's a buck rat. He didn't feel frightened, but I reckon he'd told his missis and the little 'uns that he'd just take a squint at a notable couple, and come back. I'll wager a new hat, he's telling 'em a fine tale.
gpt
For all you know he may be an old bachelor.
human
Ah! Rats are wiser than we. And Nature is kinder to them. 'Tis no big business for them to get to house-keeping. When they're good and ready, they go at it--slam bang.
gpt
Yes. Animals don't want much.
human
Take off hat and gloves, Fancy.
gpt
Why?