human
I _want_ to believe that you are telling the truth. Miss Ashe, but--I am sorry to say that I have known girls, who thought they were truthful, to dissemble--to--
gpt
I am not one of those girls, Miss North. I give you my word of honor that I never saw that book, or one like it, in my life, until this minute. That is all I can say--you may believe me or not.
human
One moment, Miss Ashe. There is no need for anger. This, as I stated before, is a serious matter. It is possible that the girl who brought this book into the school did not realize its full import; its true significance. No girl could read it without taking away much of the bloom that it is our privilege to guard and preserve. Even I, at middle age, should find this book--obnoxious.
gpt
And you think that I would secrete a book of that kind in my drawer? That I would touch it any more than you would?
human
Do you know of any one who would be likely to put the book in your drawer, Miss Ashe?
gpt
No, Miss North, I do not. I don't believe any of the girls I know would have done it.
human
Very well. You may go now. The matter will be thoroughly investigated.
gpt
And in the meantime I remain under suspicion?
human
Straight and true like an Ashe, Honey
gpt
We have many of us rested under an injustice, Miss Ashe, but right always triumphs. I am old fashioned enough to believe that. The matter will be sifted to the bottom.