human
Where are you going?
gpt
Into the Dene,
human
You have been to the lodge to ask permission?
gpt
No, said another hot and perspiring man,
human
I'm afraid it is, said Esmond quietly.
gpt
In fact, there is a board to that effect a few yards back. No doubt you noticed it.
human
We did. It isn't there now. We pulled it up.
gpt
Then if you ever wish to get into the Dene I think you made a mistake, he said.
human
Still, as you can't get any farther to-day, you may as well go back. This gate is locked.
gpt
That don't count, said somebody.
human
We'll have it off its hinges inside five minutes.
gpt
Steady! he said, and raised his voice a trifle.
human
Now, look here, my men, you certainly can't come in, and you'll only get yourselves into trouble by trying. This is private property.
gpt
Of course! said one of the strangers.
human
Everything is. You've got the land, and you've got the water--one can't even bathe in the river now. It's not your fault you can't lay hands on the air and sunshine, too.
gpt
That is rot! he said.
human
Willow Dene belongs to me, and you are certainly not coming in. I don't feel inclined to explain my reasons for keeping you out of it, and it's quite probable you wouldn't understand them. Have you brought any responsible person to whom one could talk along with you?