human
What is it, Dick?
gpt
Here's a game! cried Dick.
human
Just look!
gpt
Why, here's a hollow turnip and two sticks! cried Dick aloud;
human
Stop the dyke or you'll have to dig, said Tom eagerly.
gpt
You'll have to dig! Does he mean dig the ditch?
human
No! roared Dick;
gpt
Yes, Dick, and that's the spirit in which to take such a cowardly threat--laugh at it, said the squire, replacing the letter in his pocket-book.
human
I only wish I knew who sent it. Who's this coming?
gpt
Why, it's Dave!
human
Oh, yes, I remember! said the squire;
gpt
And you never said a word about it, father! Here, come along, Tom.
human
Seems to be letting him idle a deal,
gpt
Not it, said the squire.
human
They're both very young and growing. Let them enjoy themselves and grow strong and hearty. They've had a long turn at school, and all this will do them good.
gpt
Ay, it'll mak 'em grow strong and lusty if it does nowt else,
human
And as to the big drain, said the squire;
gpt
Ay, but what's that to do with it?
human
This, said the squire, smiling;
gpt
That's true, said Farmer Tallington;
human
It's all stuff, neighbour! Treat it as I do--with contempt.
gpt
Ah! you see you're a gentleman, squire, and a bit of a scholar, and I'm only a plain man.
human
A good neighbour and a true Englishman, Tallington; and I'm glad my son has so good and frank a companion as your boy. There, take my advice: treat all this opposition with contempt.
gpt
Theer's my hand, squire, said Farmer Tallington.
human
You nivver gave me a bad bit of advice yet, and I'll stick to what you say--but on one condition.
gpt
What's that?
human
You'll let me grumble now and then.