human
But do not let us talk about it, she said, with a shudder.
gpt
I should like not to be able to think about it, again, for six months. You used to say, dad, that I was plucky, because I wasn't afraid of wild cattle, and not very afraid of the natives or bush rangers; but I am sure I cannot lay claim to any special courage in future, for no one in the world could feel more frightened than I did, yesterday.
human
Well, my dear, you were no worse than anyone else, for everyone else bolted at the first alarm. The way that street was cleared was something marvellous.
gpt
Yes, dad; but I was too frightened to run. Not that it would have been any use if I had, for he was close to us before we knew what was the matter; and if I could have run, I don't think Emma could.
human
No, indeed, Miss Furley said.
gpt
I had no idea of running and, even had there been plenty of time, I am sure I could not have got out of the way. Somehow I seemed to lose all power to move. I had just shut my eyes, and thought it was all over, when there was a shout and a rush, and I saw the Malay roll over; and then I made a snatch at Frances, and rolled over, too.
human
It was a terrible moment, Mr. Hudson said.
gpt
But I agree, with Frances, that it is better for you to try and think nothing more about it, until you have perfectly recovered your health and spirits.
human
I hear, dad, that the young man that saved us has gone on board ship. I asked, directly I was up, because I wanted to see him.
gpt
And I expect, my dear, that he slipped away because he didn't want to see you. It sounds rude, doesn't it? But I can perfectly understand it.
human
So can I, the girl agreed.
gpt
Did you see him this morning?
human
No, my dear. I came downstairs only a minute or two before you did, and then found that he was gone.
gpt
Have you thought over what you are going to do, dad, for him?
human
Wilson and I have talked it over, Frances, but at present we don't see our way. It is too serious a matter to make up our minds in a hurry. Your mother is in favour of giving him a handsome present; but I don't think, myself, that that would do. Men who will do such deeds as that are not the sort of men to be paid by money.
gpt
Oh no, dad! Surely not that. Any other possible way, but not money.
human
No, my dear; so I thought. I have chatted it over with Wilson, and we have agreed that the best plan is to leave it entirely in your hands.
gpt
I will think it over, dad, the girl said gravely.
human
It is a serious thing. We owe him our lives, and the least we can do is not to hurt his feelings, by the way in which we try to show our gratitude.