human
Young folks, we must be going, if we expect to reach home that very same night, like the old woman with her pig,
gpt
Are you talked out? asked Delia, archly;
human
I want your brother to stay and have some supper with me. I'm my own housekeeper now; but I think we could manage.
gpt
What fun it would be, said Delia.
human
As there are no stores, we should have to start at the foundation of things.
gpt
I have a loaf of bread, and some cold mutton, and eggs, I think, and tea and coffee. Come, you had better accept my hospitality.
human
I must be home in the early evening,
gpt
And Hanny's not to stay out after dark,
human
We are going down to Cockloft Hall, explained Mr. Whitney.
gpt
I am sorry we cannot accept.
human
Then you must bring your happy family again. If they are fond of curiosities, the old house could entertain them all day long.
gpt
And if they are fond of adventures, which they are, they might put you to the test,
human
Then you'd have to find me in the mood. In that respect, I am variable.
gpt
Do you have a mood for each day? Then your friends could be sure--
human
A good idea, like the ladies' reception-days. Must I put on the card, Serious, Jolly, Adventurous, etc.?
gpt
And supernatural. I should come on the ghost days. For if ever a ghost walked out of its earthy habitation, I should think it would be here. Did you ever see a ghost, Mr. Herbert?
human
I have seen some queer things. But these up here, nodding his head,
gpt
No, I have not, except the ghosts of my imagination. I can shut my eyes now, and see them come trooping down that lonely road by twos and threes.
human
A vivid imagination is worth a good deal at times, he said.
gpt
There ought to be a ghost-walk about here; and next time you come over, we'll arrange one so perfectly that he shall defy detection. I'll walk a bit with you, if I am not a ghost.