human
Hold still, can't you?
gpt
I can; but I won't,
human
I'll thrash you soundly, if you don't behave!
gpt
I'll kick you in the ribs, if you dare to threaten me! returned the horse, laying back its ears.
human
Why, you miserable little freckle-faced kinglet, I could run away with you and break your neck, if I wanted to!
gpt
That's true, said his Majesty, meekly.
human
I beg your pardon for my harsh words. Let us be friends, by all means!
gpt
Throw away that mace!
human
Now, said the animal,
gpt
I understand,
human
Very good! declared the horse.
gpt
When you're on your throne you're a tyrant; but when you're on horseback you're a coward, because you're at my mercy, and you know it. Now, we are off.