human
I'm glad you've found something to take your fancy, Mr. Bates.
gpt
I beg pardon, he stammered out at length.
human
I did not know you were in the room.
gpt
Don't mention it. I'm glad to see that you are fond of books; and I'm glad to see you here.
human
I was afraid you were not coming, went on Mr. Munroe;
gpt
Getting on nicely, thank you; the doctor says it will soon be as right as ever.
human
I'm glad to hear it. It's a mercy we were not every one of us killed; but I'm having a new bridge built. I've been _going_ to have it done for the last ten years, but kept putting it off; however, they are going to start with the job next week.
gpt
I'm very glad to hear it, said Benny.
human
It's not safe as it is at present.
gpt
No, no; you're quite right there.
human
I wanted to see you here, he said,
gpt
I understand you have not always lived in the country?
human
No, sir; I lived in Liverpool till I was twelve or thirteen years of age.
gpt
And how do you like farming?
human
Very well, I think; but, really, I've scarcely thought about it.
gpt
You are not uncomfortable, then?
human
Oh, no! far from it. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher took me in when I was houseless, homeless, friendless, and all but dead, and ever since have treated me with the utmost kindness. I have a better home now than I ever had before in my life, and as for the work I do, I feel that it's but poor compensation for the kindness bestowed upon me.
gpt
You have no wish, then, to be anything different to what you are?
human
I did not say so, sir; but as I have no expectation of being other than what I am, I try to be content.
gpt
Ah, just so; and yet I am told you have paid considerable attention to intellectual pursuits.
human
I have tried to make the most of my opportunities for acquiring knowledge. I'm fond of books--very; and knowledge I love for its own sake.
gpt
Well spoken, Mr. Bates. I like to hear a young man talk in that way. You are a good penman, Mr. Jones tells me.
human
He has paid me that compliment before, but I am scarcely a judge.
gpt
You understand bookkeeping?
human
A little.
gpt
Double entry?
human
Yes.
gpt
Quick at accounts?
human
I should think not. I have scarcely had sufficient practice.
gpt
I suppose if you stay on the farm there is no prospect of your rising to anything higher than a day labourer?
human
Not much, I fear.
gpt
Well, now, Mr. Bates, I may as well out with it first as last. I am very much pleased with you; I am, indeed. I cannot forget that you saved my life, and the life of my niece; and I am anxious to help you to something better than being a farm labourer if you will let me. Almost any one can do farm work, and I think you are deserving of something better, because you have educated yourself for it. Now, I shall be glad to take you into my city office, and give you a start in life. I commenced as a clerk at the desk, and what I have accomplished there is no reason why you may not. What do you say, now?
human
I hardly know what to say, said Benny.
gpt
I am very much obliged to you for your kind offer, but I would like to talk with Mr. and Mrs. Fisher about the matter before I come to a decision.
human
You are quite right, Mr. Bates. Let me know this day week; and now let us go into the drawing-room and see the ladies.