human
What on earth is the matter with you? he asked.
gpt
What is wrong? How are you ailing?
human
Look out for a situation, indeed! For what situation are you fit? What have you been doing with yourself? You are not well.
gpt
I should be well if I went from home.
human
These women are incomprehensible. They have the strangest knack of startling you with unpleasant surprises. To-day you see them bouncing, buxom, red as cherries, and round as apples; to-morrow they exhibit themselves effete as dead weeds, blanched and broken down. And the reason of it all? That's the puzzle. She has her meals, her liberty, a good house to live in, and good clothes to wear, as usual. A while since that sufficed to keep her handsome and cheery, and there she sits now a poor, little, pale, puling chit enough. Provoking! Then comes the question, What is to be done? I suppose I must send for advice. Will you have a doctor, child?
gpt
No, uncle, I don't want one. A doctor could do me no good. I merely want change of air and scene.
human
Well, if that be the caprice, it shall be gratified. You shall go to a watering-place. I don't mind the expense. Fanny shall accompany you.
gpt
But, uncle, some day I must do something for myself; I have no fortune. I had better begin now.
human
While I live, you shall not turn out as a governess, Caroline. I will not have it said that my niece is a governess.
gpt
But the later in life one makes a change of that sort, uncle, the more difficult and painful it is. I should wish to get accustomed to the yoke before any habits of ease and independence are formed.
human
I beg you will not harass me, Caroline. I mean to provide for you. I have always meant to provide for you. I will purchase an annuity. Bless me! I am but fifty-five; my health and constitution are excellent. There is plenty of time to save and take measures. Don't make yourself anxious respecting the future. Is that what frets you?
gpt
No, uncle; but I long for a change.
human
There speaks the woman! cried he,
gpt
But it is not fantasy and whim, uncle.
human
What is it then?
gpt
Necessity, I think. I feel weaker than formerly. I believe I should have more to do.
human
Admirable! She feels weak, and _therefore_ she should be set to hard labour--'clair comme le jour,' as Moore--confound Moore! You shall go to Cliff Bridge; and there are two guineas to buy a new frock. Come, Cary, never fear. We'll find balm in Gilead.
gpt
Uncle, I wish you were less generous and more----
human
More what?
gpt
The fact is, you don't know precisely what you want.
human
Only to be a governess.
gpt
Pooh! mere nonsense! I'll not hear of governessing. Don't mention it again. It is rather too feminine a fancy. I have finished breakfast. Ring the bell. Put all crotchets out of your head, and run away and amuse yourself.
human
What with? My doll?