human
What excites you, Fancy?
gpt
I sat with Alfred Yellam at the back of school-house amongst the young fellows.
human
Well?
gpt
Before Alfred left me, he told me to tell you, sir, that the young fellows was not too well pleased with what Captain Davenant said. Alfred was real vexed at their remarks. He thought you did ought to know.
human
I'm much obliged to Alfred for a timely hint. But couldn't this have kept till the morning?
gpt
There's something else, sir.
human
Out with it!
gpt
After Alfred went, Molly told me as everybody in village was saying as how George Mucklow's father _made_ him go, and that upset the other young men.... And then....
human
And then...?
gpt
Molly and me fell to talking about Mr. Edward.
human
Excuse me, sir, for asking you something, but I do want to know so bad.
gpt
Ask your question, Fancy.
human
Did you tell Mr. Edward to go?
gpt
No.
human
Ah! He wanted to go, and you didn't raise a finger to prevent him. If you had, maybe he'd have stayed.
gpt
I--I don't think so.
human
Molly and me thinks that those who can least be spared may have to go, if--if the others hold back.
gpt
I see. You are thinking of your Alfred?
human
If you please, sir. He be terrible put out at the others hanging back.
gpt
I give my opinion for what it is worth, Fancy. In these deep matters none can speak for another. I do not presume to speak for Alfred. But Lord Kitchener, if he were here, would assure you that Alfred is certainly not needed yet, nor likely to be for a long time.
human
Thank you, sir. That does hearten me. But, if he should want to go, and if--if he left it to me, what should I do? What ought I to do?