human
Lottie, child! I can take you to the private view of Mrs. ----'s pictures; I have just got an invitation. You know how wild you are to see them. Be ready at two o'clock. I will call for you then.
gpt
I am very sorry, but I cannot go with you this afternoon, Uncle Jasper.
human
Oh! You have made an engagement with Hinton. Can't you put it off? This is the last day for the pictures. You can go with Hinton to-morrow.
gpt
It is not an engagement with John, Uncle Jasper. It is something else, and I cannot put it off.
human
Go and see the pictures. Put off the reading of the will. Be happy for one more day.
gpt
I am very sorry, she repeated;
human
I should have liked it greatly. But I cannot go.
gpt
Well! it is a pity, and I took some trouble about it. However, it can't be helped.
human
No, it can't be helped,
gpt
Strange cattle--women, he said to himself.
human
I confess I don't understand 'em. Charlotte, wild to get to that private view two days ago, now won't go because of a whim. Well! I'm glad I never took a wife. I rather pity Hinton. I would not be tied even to that fine creature, Lottie, forever.