human
I am afraid, Miss Linden, you will not suit me.
gpt
May I ask why?
human
I called on Mrs. Leighton, was the answer.
gpt
She speaks well of you as a teacher, but--she told me some things which make it seem inexpedient to engage you.
human
What did she say of me?
gpt
That, perhaps, you had better not inquire.
human
I prefer to know the worst.
gpt
She said you encouraged the attentions of her nephew, forgetting the difference in social position, and also that your connections were not of a sort to recommend you. I admit, Miss Linden, that you are very ladylike in appearance, but, I can hardly be expected to admit into my house, in the important position of governess to my child, the daughter or niece of an apple-woman.
human
Did Mrs. Leighton say that I was related to an apple-woman?
gpt
Yes, Miss Linden. I own I was surprised.
human
It is not true, Mrs. Cole.
gpt
You live in the house of such a person, do you not?
human
Yes, she is an humble friend of mine, and has been kind to me.
gpt
You cannot be very fastidious. However, that is your own affair. I am sorry to disappoint you, Miss Linden, but it will be quite impossible for me to employ you.
human
Then I will bid you good-morning, Mrs. Cole,
gpt
Good-morning. You will, I think, understand my position. If you applied for a position in one of the public schools, I don't think that your residence would be an objection.