human
It's fortunate you Eastern people have a sea, Farnsworth said, as he gazed across the black distance,
gpt
You Western people have a sea, too, I believe,
human
Yes, but we don't really need it, as you do. We have seas of land, rolling all over the place. We can get our breath inland; you have to come to the ocean to get a full breath.
gpt
That's the popular superstition. I mean, that we are cramped and all that. But, really, I think we all have room enough. I think the Westerner's idea of wanting several acres to breathe in is just a habit.
human
Perhaps you're right, he said;
gpt
Of course you could. But why should you? If you like the West, the big, breezy, long-distance West, there's no reason why you should cultivate a taste for our little cramped up, stuffy East.
human
That's right! But I wish I could show you our country. Wouldn't you love to go galloping across a great prairie,--tearing ahead for illimitable miles,--breathing the air that has come, fresh and clean, straight down from the blue sky?
gpt
You make it sound well, but after that mad gallop is over, what then? A shack or ranch, or whatever you call it, with whitewashed walls, and rush mats and a smoky stove?
human
By George! You're about right! It wouldn't suit YOU, would it? You couldn't fit into that picture!
gpt
I'm 'fraid not. But if we're going to fit into the picture soon to assemble in Mona's dining-room, we must make a start in that direction. Mr. Farnsworth--
human
Call me Bill, oh, DO call me Bill!
gpt
Why should I?
human
Because I want you to; and because I think you might make that much concession to my Western primitiveness and unceremoniousness.
gpt
But I don't like the name of Bill. It's so,--so--
human
So uncouth? Yes, it is. But I'm not the sort to be called William. Well, DO call me something pleasant and amiable.
gpt
I'll call you Little Billee. That's Thackeray's, and therefore, it's all right. Now, can you slip me back into my own apartments as quietly as you took me away?
human
Of course I can, as it's nearly dark now. Here we go!