human
Have a glass of sherry. You are not looking over-bright to-day,
gpt
Thanks; I never drink before dinner, was the answer.
human
I have been worried a little in business matters lately, that is all, he added.
gpt
But I am going to take a long holiday presently.
human
Nothing like it when you're fagged out, or when the machinery gets a bit out of gear, responded Mr. Barker.
gpt
Can't keep the bow always bent, you know. Sha'n't see you again for some time, then? South of France--Italian Lakes--eh?
human
Well, I hardly know yet where I am bound for, said Mr. James, with a curious, pallid smile. Then he took up his hat and brushed it round with his sleeve in a hesitating way very unusual with him.
gpt
Nothing you see or hear ever surprises you, does it, Mr. Barker?
human
Well, no, Mr. James. I'm rather too old a bird to be surprised at anything.
gpt
Then you won't be surprised at anything you may read in the papers in the course of the next few days.