human
Joe, began his brother, abruptly,
gpt
Bitter?
human
Yes. We all used to be so nice and jolly together, and Delia likes us all so much. Hanny has such good times down there, with the old lady who sings such pretty old-fashioned songs, if her voice is rather cracked and tremulous; and Nora is bright and entertaining. But the other day mother wouldn't let her go; and she was dreadfully disappointed; and mother is not as cordial to Delia as she used to be. Dele spoke of it.
gpt
I hate things to go crosswise. And when something keeps you just a little ruffled up all the time--
human
You go there a good deal, you know. Some of the men are not quite the company a young fellow should choose, mother thinks.
gpt
I don't see much of the older men. They're mostly smoking downstairs, and I don't care a bit for that. But their talk is often worth listening to. People who just keep in one little round have no idea how rich the world is growing intellectually, scientifically; and on what broad lines it is being laid.
human
It is not the men altogether. Ben, you don't go anywhere else. Perhaps it would be wisdom to enlarge your acquaintance among girls, young ladies,
gpt
I don't care a penny for girls in general, said Ben, with elderly gravity.
human
Delia sometimes asks them in; and we seldom have as good a time. She's a host in herself; and I've always liked her.
gpt
You haven't had a very wide experience. And you are too young to make up your mind about--anything.