human
Don't be in a hurry, said Deaves.
gpt
Sit down and let's talk.
human
You're a good boy, and a strong boy, said the old man.
gpt
I'd like to do something for you.
human
Don't mention it,
gpt
Why don't you come every day and go out with me. I like to walk about. I can't stay cooped up here. I like the streets. But people recognise me.
human
And make rude remarks,
gpt
But with you I could go anywhere.
human
Ah, a body-guard,
gpt
If you want to hire me I'm willing. I need the money.
human
Hire you! said the old man in a panic.
gpt
I never said anything about hiring you. I just mean a friendly arrangement. You have plenty of time on your hands. I'll give you good advice. Show you how to become a successful man.
human
Thanks, said Evan dryly.
gpt
But the labels I paint bring in ready money.
human
Many a young man would be glad of the chance to go around with Simeon Deaves, he went on cunningly.
gpt
It would be a liberal education for you.
human
You could have your meals here, Deaves said quickly.
gpt
They eat well. There's enough wasted in this house to feed an orphanage.
human
Sorry, said Evan.
gpt
It doesn't appeal to me.
human
Well, you could have a room on the top floor. You look pretty good; Maud wouldn't mind you. Your living wouldn't cost you a cent.
gpt
I'm open for an offer as I told you, but only during specified hours. I'd eat and sleep at home.
human
You're a fool! said the old man testily.
gpt
Free board and lodging! I haven't any money.
human
All right, said Evan moving towards the door.
gpt
No harm done.
human
Wait a minute. Maybe my son would lend me the money to pay you a small salary. He says I oughtn't to go out alone.
gpt
A small salary doesn't interest me, said Evan boldly.
human
Fifty dollars a week is my figure.
gpt
You're crazy. It's a fortune. At your age I wasn't making a third of that!
human
Very likely. But times have changed.
gpt
Snoopers!
human
Will you show me the way up-stairs? he said.
gpt
I don't care to use the servants' entrance.
human
Sure, that's right, said Deaves soothingly.
gpt
I hope we won't meet Maud. Always picking on me.
human
Fifteen dollars a week; that's plenty to live on. Youngsters ought to live simply. It's good for their health.
gpt
But how about putting something by?
human
Well, I think my son might go as high as seventeen-fifty if I asked him. Because you're a good boy and a strong boy.
gpt
Thanks. Nothing doing.
human
Well, I'll add two and a half to that myself. But that's my last word! Not another cent!
gpt
Nothing doing,
human
Better let me take a look to see if Maud's around. He peeped out.
gpt
All right, the coast is clear.