human
Don't thank me, said the macaw, turning toward him one black eye, in a saucy manner, and winking comically.
gpt
I ate part of you for my breakfast, and feel greatly refreshed. Were it not for the Arab I'd hope to get another meal off you, but between the Arab and the Mifkets you're not likely to last long. Good bye.
human
There's less of you than ever, said the child, looking him over carefully.
gpt
Your coat tails are gone now.
human
Yes, said the gingerbread man,
gpt
What are you going to do?
human
I'm going to save the Princess before I'm gone entirely, said John, with decision.
gpt
Not that I have overcome my dislike to being eaten, you understand, but if a black Mifket and a foolish bird find it so easy to feast upon my person, Ali Dubh is sure to get me in time, and before that happens I want to do one good deed, and help the little girl to regain her strength and health.
human
Good! exclaimed Chick, approvingly.
gpt
You're all right, John Dough, even if it did take you a long time to make up your mind. But we haven't any knife.
human
What shall we do?
gpt
Can't we _break_ off a chunk of you?
human
No!
gpt
Wait a minute! cried Chick,
human
I've an idea.
gpt
This'll saw gingerbread all right, I'm sure. Hold out your hand, John Dough!
human
There! It's all over. Did it hurt?
gpt
No.
human
It isn't much worse than it was before, said the child.
gpt
You'll never miss it in the world. Now wait here while I go to the Princess.
human
It wasn't as bad as I feared, he said to himself;