human
Beg pardon, sir, you will not be admitted.
gpt
Not admitted? Why not, Davie?
human
I really am very sorry, sir. If my key would have availed, you would have been welcome to it; but, sir, there's such a terrible lot of Black Ram in you, sir. That must be got out first.
gpt
I don't understand, Davie.
human
I'm sorry, sir, to have to say it; but you've never done anyone any good.
gpt
I paid you your wages regularly.
human
Yes, sir, to be sure, sir, for my services to yourself.
gpt
And I've always subscribed when asked for money.
human
Yes, that is very true, sir, but that was because you thought it was expected of you, not because you had any sympathy with those in need, and sickness, and suffering.
gpt
I'm sure I never did anyone any harm.
human
No, sir, and never anyone any good. You'll excuse me for mentioning it.
gpt
But, Davie, what do you mean? I can't get in?
human
No, sir, not till you have the key.
gpt
But, bless my soul! what is to become of me? Am I to stick out here?
human
Yes, sir, unless----
gpt
In this damp, and cold, and darkness?
human
There is no help for it, Mr. Fothergill, unless----
gpt
Unless what, Davie?
human
Unless you become a mother, sir!
gpt
What?
human
Of twins, sir.
gpt
Fiddlesticks!
human
Indeed, it is so, sir, and you will have to nurse them.
gpt
I can't do it. I'm physically incapable.
human
It must be done, sir. Very sorry to mention it, but there is no alternative. There's Sally Bowker is approaching her confinement, and it's going terribly hard with her. The doctor thinks she'll never pull through. But if you'd consent to pass into her and become a mother----
gpt
And nurse the twins? Oh, Davie, I shall need a great amount of stout.
human
I grieve to say it, Mr. Fothergill, but you'll be too poor to afford it.
gpt
Is there no alternative?
human
None in the world, sir.
gpt
I don't know my way to the place.
human
If you'd do me the honour, sir, to take my arm, I would lead you to the house.
gpt
It's hard--cruel hard on an old bachelor. Must it be twins? It's a rather large order.
human
It really must, sir.