human
Yes, they do seem to droop some; 't is a little warm for them here in the sun, said Miss Pendexter;
gpt
They do look pretty, don't they? Mrs. Bickford regarded the three in turn.
human
I want to have them all pretty. You may deem it strange, Abby.
gpt
Why, no, Mis' Bickford, said the guest sincerely, although a little perplexed by the solemnity of the occasion.
human
I know how 'tis with friends,--that having one don't keep you from wantin' another; 'tis just like havin' somethin' to eat, and then wantin' somethin' to drink just the same. I expect all friends find their places.
gpt
I done the best I could while they was alive, she said,
human
Perhaps you'll feel sure when you first wake up in the morning, answered Miss Pendexter solicitously.
gpt
It's a case where I don't deem myself qualified to offer you any advice. But I'll say one thing, seeing's you've been so friendly spoken and confiding with me. I never was married myself, Mis' Bickford, because it wa'n't so that I could have the one I liked.
human
I suppose he ain't livin', then? Why, I wan't never aware you had met with a disappointment, Abby,
gpt
Yes 'm, he's livin', replied Miss Pendexter humbly.
human
No 'm, I never have heard that he died.
gpt
I want to know! exclaimed the woman of experience.
human
Well, I'll tell you this, Abby: you may have regretted your lot, and felt lonesome and hardshipped, but they all have their faults, and a single woman's got her liberty, if she ain't got other blessin's.
gpt
said Abby, meeker than before.
human
I feel very thankful for my blessin's, all the same. You've always been a kind neighbor, Mis' Bickford.
gpt
Why can't you stop to tea?