human
Three good useful horses, and the best-bred bull and cow in the marsh, squire, said Farmer Tallington, who had come over as soon as he heard the news.
gpt
Any idea who it could be?
human
No, said the squire;
gpt
It's the drain, neighbour, the drain, said the farmer, shaking his head.
human
Let's be content with the money we've lost, and try to put a stop to proceedings before we suffer more and worse. There's them about as hev sworn the drain sha'n't be made, and it's the same hands that fired my stacks and those shots, neighbour.
gpt
I daresay it is, farmer, said the squire sternly;
human
Ay, I think I know what you mean.
gpt
And so do you, Dick?
human
Yes, father.
gpt
Well, my boy, I've put my hand to the plough to do a good, honest, sensible work, and, knowing as I do, that it's a man's duty to go on with it, I shall stand fast, come what may.
human
And not leave me in the lurch, Mr Winthorpe?
gpt
No, Marston, not if they hamstring me in turn, cried the squire, holding out his hand to the young engineer, who had hurried over.
human
I suppose I shall get a bullet in me one of these days; but never mind, we've begun the drain. And do you hear, all of you? he shouted;