human
I've got your pay, Rowland, and signed a receipt for it to that attorney. He paid it out of his own pocket. You could have worked that company for fifty thousand, or more; but I knew you wouldn't touch their money, and so, only struck him for your wages. You're entitled to a month's pay. Here it is--American money--about seventeen.
gpt
Now here's something else, Rowland, he continued, producing an envelope.
human
In consideration of the fact that you lost all your clothes and later, your arm, through the carelessness of the company's officers, Mr. Thompson offers you this.
gpt
It seems that I'm not to escape it, after all.
human
Take 'em, old man, take 'em; in fact, I took 'em for you, and you and the kid are booked. And I made Thompson agree to settle your doctor's bill and expenses with that Sheeny. 'Tisn't bribery. I'd heel you myself for the run over, but, hang it, you'll take nothing from me. You've got to get the young un over. You're the only one to do it. The old gentleman was an American, alone here--hadn't even a lawyer, that I could find. The boat sails in the morning and the night train leaves in two hours. Think of that mother, Rowland. Why, man, I'd travel round the world to stand in your shoes when you hand Myra over. I've got a child of my own.
gpt
Yes, I'll take the passage, he said, with a smile.
human
I accept the bribe.
gpt
That's right. You'll be strong and healthy when you land, and when that mother's through thanking you, and you have to think of yourself, remember--I want a mate and will be here a month before sailing. Write to me, care o' Lloyds, if you want the berth, and I'll send you advance money to get back with.
human
Thank you, captain, said Rowland, as he took the other's hand and then glanced at his empty sleeve;
gpt
Well, suit yourself, Rowland; I'll take you mate without any hands at all while you had your brains. It's done me good to meet a man like you; and--say, old man, you won't take it wrong from me, will you? It's none o' my business, but you're too all-fired good a man to drink. You haven't had a nip for two months. Are you going to begin?
human
Never again, said Rowland, rising.
gpt
I've a future now, as well as a past.