human
And that fine old wood--full of cocks it used to be--I hope you worked it well last year.
gpt
Plenty of cocks, said his guest, correcting him;
human
There is really no winter to fill up here, thanks to this delicious climate; and I have my books.
gpt
Ah! I wish I had. I wish heartily, said he, in a confidential tone,
human
I do not think that they are an article which is for sale, if Solomon is to be believed.
gpt
And if they were, I couldn't afford to buy, with this Irish Encumbered Estates' Bill. But now, this is one thing I wanted to say. Is everything here just as you would wish? Of course no one could wish a better tenant; but any repairs, you know, or improvements which I ought to do of course? Only tell me what you think should be done; for, of course, you know more about these things than I do--can't know less.
human
Nothing, I assure you, Lord Scoutbush. I have always left those matters to Mr. Tardrew.
gpt
Ah, my dear fellow, you shouldn't do that. He is such a screw, as all honest stewards are. Screws me, I know, and I dare say has screwed you too.
human
Never, I assure you. I never gave him the opportunity, and he has been most civil.
gpt
Well, in future, just order him to do what you like, and just as if you were landlord, in fact; and if the old man haggles, write to me, and I'll blow him up. Delighted to have a man of taste like you here, who can improve the place for me.
human
I assure you, Lord Scoutbush, I need nothing, nor does the place. I am a man of very few wants.
gpt
I wish I were,
human
And I am bound to say --(and here Elsley choked a little; but the Viscount's frankness and humility had softened him, and he determined to be very magnanimous)--
gpt
I am bound in honour, after owing to your kindness such an exquisite retreat--all that either I or Lucia could have fancied for ourselves, and more--not to trouble you by asking for little matters which we really do not need.