human
It's only an old farmhouse made over, Mrs. Blunt was saying;
gpt
That would be very nice. I hear Lenox is more beautiful than ever.
human
Yes, it is, and about as difficult to get into as the kingdom of heaven. It's being spoiled for moderate people. The Hendersons and the Van Dams and that sort are in a race to see who shall build houses with the biggest rooms, and give the most expensive entertainments. It's all show. The old flavor has gone.
gpt
But they cannot spoil the scenery.
human
My child, they are the scenery. You can't see anything else. It doesn't bother me, but some of my old neighbors are just ruining themselves trying to keep the pace. I do think the Americans are the biggest fools on earth.
gpt
Father Damon says the trouble is we haven't any middle class for a balance.
human
Yes, that's the English of it. But it's a pity that fashion has got hold of the country, and is turning our summers into a worry and a burden. I thought years ago when we went to Lenox that it was a good thing the country was getting to be the fashion; but now it's fashionable, and before we know it every desirable spot will be what they call syndicated. Miss Tavish says she is coming to visit the Hendersons there.
gpt
I thought she went to Bar Harbor.
human
But she is coming down for part of the season. These people don't stay anywhere. Just long enough in one place to upset everything with their extravagance. That's the reason I didn't ask you and Jack up this summer.
gpt
Thank you, we couldn't go, you know, said Edith, simply, and then, with curiosity in her eyes, asked;
human
Well, said Mrs. Blunt, as if nerving herself up to say what must be said,
gpt
I thought perhaps you wouldn't like to be where they are.
human
I don't know why I should or why I should not,
gpt
Nor have Jack with them,
human
What do you mean, Mrs. Blunt?
gpt
Don't turn on me, Edith dear. I oughtn't to have said anything. But I thought it was my duty. Of course it is only talk.
human
Well?
gpt
That Jack is always with one or the other of those women.
human
It is false! cried Edith, starting up, with tears now in her eyes;
gpt
I said it was a shame, all such talk. I said it was nonsense. But, dear, as a friend, oughtn't I to tell you?