human
To think that you should have to get up again, my poor Els! Give me a good-night kiss.
gpt
Gladly, dearest, replied the other.
human
But it is really quite time to say 'good-morning.
gpt
And you have kept awake so long!
human
What is this? cried Els, with sincere anxiety.
gpt
Are you hurt, child? Surely you are weeping?
human
No, no, was the reply.
gpt
I am only--I only thought that I had adorned myself, decked myself out with idle finery, although I know how many poor people are starving in want and misery, and how much more pleasing in the sight of the Lord is the grey robe of the cloistered nun. I could scarcely leave the hall in my overweening pleasure, and yet it would have beseemed me far better to share the sufferings of the crucified Saviour.
human
But, child, replied Els, striving to soothe her sister,
gpt
He--he! groaned Eva,
human
Be sensible, child, and put aside such thoughts. How loudly the birds are twittering outside! If our father is obliged to breakfast alone there may be a storm, and I should be glad to have an hour's nap. You need slumber, too. Dancing is tiresome. Shut your eyes and sleep as long as you can. I'll be as quiet as a mouse while I am dressing.