human
There is one cake there which I want very much. I suppose if I tell you which it is, you will eat it.
gpt
There is also only one which I care for, said I.
human
I wonder if it's the same?
gpt
Probably, said the boy.
human
If you take it, there isn't another which I would be found dead with in my mouth, on a desert island. And I haven't had much dinner.
gpt
said I.
human
Still, greatness lies in magnanimity. You shall choose your cake first; but remember, you cannot have it, and eat it, too; so make up your mind quickly which is better.
gpt
I always thought that a stupid saying, remarked the Brat, as he helped himself to a ginger-nut with pink icing.
human
I have my cake, and when I have eaten it, I take another.
gpt
Your experience in life has been fortunate, I replied, contenting myself with the second-best cake.
human
But it has not been long. When you are a man----
gpt
A man! I would rather die--young than grow up to be one.
human
Indeed?
gpt
I hate men.
human
Ah, perhaps then, your experience has not been as fortunate in men as in cakes.
gpt
No, it hasn't. It has been just the opposite.
human
One would say, 'Thereby hangs a tale.'
gpt
There does. But it is not for strangers.
human
I'm not a lover of after-dinner stories. Here comes the coffee. Luckily, there's plenty for us both. Will you have a cigarette?
gpt
No, thanks.
human
A cigar, then?
gpt
I don't smoke.
human
Ah, some boys' heads _won't_ stand it. I'm ashamed to say that I smoked at fourteen. But perhaps you're not yet----
gpt
I will change my mind and have a cigarette, since you are so obliging.
human
Sure you won't regret it?
gpt
Quite sure, thank you.
human
They're rather strong.
gpt
I'm not afraid.