human
I tell you what it is, said Tom,
gpt
Then it was no one over our side of the fen, said Dick thoughtfully.
human
Perhaps you are right. Well, I'm going to have a good long day in the bog to-morrow. It's wonderfully dry now, and I mean to have a good wander. What time shall you be ready?
gpt
Can't go, said Tom.
human
I've promised to ride with father over to the town.
gpt
What a pity! Well, never mind; we'll go again the next day and have a good long day then.
human
Will Mr Marston go with us?
gpt
No. I asked him, and he said he should be too busy at present, but he would go in a fortnight's time. He said he should not want either of us for a week, so we can go twice if we like.
human
Shall you fish?
gpt
N-no, I don't think I shall. I mean to have a long wander through the flats away west of the fir island.
human
You can't, said Tom;
gpt
Not it. Only got to pick your way. Do you think I don't know what I'm about?
human
Better take old Solomon with you, and ride him till he sinks in, and then you can walk along his back into a safe place.
gpt
Then I'd better take another donkey too, and get him to lie down when I come to another soft place.
human
Ah, I would!
gpt
I shall, said Dick.
human
Will you come?
gpt
Do you mean by that to say that I am a donkey?
human
Yes, when you talk such stupid nonsense. Just as if I couldn't get through any bog out here in the fen. Anyone would think I was a child.
gpt
Well, don't get lost, said Tom;