human
I don't quite understand your meaning, I guess,
gpt
And it is quite apparent that I didn't understand yours. You were speaking of the Spirit of God leaving you, and I said He was right here with you----
human
Now, ain't I a caution to saints! broke in Miss Pipkin.
gpt
I did mix you up awful, didn't I? What I was asking you about was if you thought God would send back my Adoniah Phillips. He----Why, Mr. McGowan, what's the matter now?
human
What on earth have I said this time?
gpt
You say your lover's name was Phillips, Adoniah Phillips?
human
Please, don't look at me like that, it makes me feel like I've been guilty of something,
gpt
You sure you ain't sick?
human
Of course, I'm not ill. I'm slightly interested in that peculiar name. I've heard it just once before, and I'm wondering if there is a chance of its being the same man.
gpt
You've heard of him?
human
Well, I have heard his name.
gpt
There ain't likely to be another name like his.
human
Have you any idea where he is at present? You said a bit ago that you did not think he had been drowned at sea.
gpt
No,
human
Can you so much as guess?
gpt
I don't know if he's living at all, so of course I ain't got no idea where he is, was her snappy reply.
human
Has he been telling you about me and him?
gpt
He hasn't said anything to me, but----
human
You'll promise not to repeat one word to him of what I just told you?
gpt
I promise to say nothing about what you have told me. But I have my reasons for wanting to know something about this man Phillips.
human
What are your reasons?
gpt
I should not have said reasons, for I guess it is nothing but my curiosity that prompts me to ask. If you could tell me more of the facts I might be able to help you locate him.
human
You mean you have an idea that he is still living?
gpt
I can't say as to that, but if you'll only help me I am certain that we shall find out something interesting.
human
There ain't much more to tell. Adoniah went to sea. I got a letter from him once from Australia. I wrote back saying I'd take back what I'd said. He answered it, but didn't say nothing about what I said to him. He spoke of meeting up with some one he knew, saying they was going in business together. I ain't never told anybody about that, not even Josiah, and I ain't going to tell you, for I don't think he was square with Adoniah, but I can't prove it.