human
You’re the Squire of Nappa, sir? he said, with a weary smile.
gpt
No weary to ask the question. I was told to find a man as tall as an oak-tree and as sturdy.
human
Yet it would have been like seeking a needle in a bundle of hay, if you hadn’t chanced to find me at the gate, the other answered.
gpt
There are six score Metcalfs in this corner of Yoredale, and nobody takes notice of my height.
human
The jest is pretty enough, sir, but you’ll not persuade me that there’s a regiment of giants in the dale.
gpt
They’re not all of my height—granted. Some are more, and a few less. This is my eldest-born, he said, touching Christopher on the shoulder.
human
We call him Baby Kit, because he’s the smallest of us all.
gpt
Gad, the King has need of you! Undoubtedly he needs all Metcalfs, if this is your baby-boy.
human
As for the King, the whole six score of us have prayed for his welfare, Sabbath in and Sabbath out, since we were breeked. It’s good hearing that he needs us.
gpt
I ride on His Majesty’s errand. He bids the Squire of Nappa get his men and his white horses together.
human
So the King has heard of our white horses? Well, we’re proud o’ them, I own.