human
Why, even the children and the young men think I am a coward. They have the idea that courage exists nowhere but among themselves. It is the most peculiar mental delusion I ever heard, and it persists in the face of facts. The probability is that the young man who has just delivered this awful warning has laid a wager with some of his companions that he can fill me full of fright and prevent my going to Butts's.
gpt
Now, I don't think that, replied Boring, or Bridalbin.
human
I know these people to the core. I had their ideas and thought their thoughts until I found that sentiment doesn't pay. That young man has probably heard some threat made against you, and he thinks he is doing the chivalrous thing to give you a warning. Chivalry! Why, I reckon that word has done more harm to this section, first and last, than the war itself.
gpt
Or, more probable still, suggested Hotchkiss, his voice as smooth and as flexible as a snake,
human
Don't you believe it, said Bridalbin.
gpt
I know these people a great deal better than you do.
human
I know them a great deal better than I care to, remarked Hotchkiss drily.
gpt
I have not a doubt that this young Tolliver was one of that marauding band of conspirators that surrounded the church recently, and endeavoured to intimidate our coloured fellow-citizens. Nor do I doubt that these same conspirators will make an effort to frighten me. I have no doubt that they will make a strong effort to run me away. But they can't do it, my friend. I feel that I have a mission here, and here I propose to stay until there is no work for me to do.
human
Well, I can keep an eye on Tolliver if you think it best, Bridalbin suggested somewhat doubtfully.
gpt
I know where he lives.
human
Do that, Boring, exclaimed Hotchkiss with grateful enthusiasm.
gpt
Come to the lodge about nine or half-past, and report. The