human
he asked--and seemed relieved when they declined with thanks.
gpt
I'm a seatotaller myself, he observed;
human
I don't drink like a fish, nor go in for cups.
gpt
I'm glad we said 'No, thank you,' whispered Dulcie to Cyril, who nodded assent.
human
Why are you so sad, Mr. Fish-King?
gpt
I fear I'm somewhat glum for a birthday party, but I've had so many of them; besides, I'm bothered about the slump! One would think Seaweed safe enough for a vested interest, surely. From all accounts, they must have been cooked--softly, too, in the bargain! Can you make it out, my dears?
human
Now, let's go abaft, suggested his Majesty. He rose, and looked at them with a ray of cheerfulness.
gpt
We'll watch the Water Sports. I revel in them when they are good--usually they go bad.
human
It's lucky you happened to come on my birthday, he continued,
gpt
and he took up a Menu from the table:
human
Do they race better than new ones?
gpt
They've more experience, replied his Majesty.
human
What is about to begin, he said quite gaily as they followed him up the gangway,
gpt
--he leaned over the side, the Twins did likewise.
human
He's turning turtle!
gpt
Next Innings! shouted his Majesty.
human
Fish balls bowled, he read from the Menu. And taking their plaice, a game of cricket began.
gpt
They think they can play, he whispered,
human
Once in London, we saw such a lot of fish in the big shops there, volunteered Dulcie in a burst of confidence. The next moment she wished she hadn't spoken, for Cyril was frowning at her and shaking his head. She glanced timidly at the Fish-King. He evidently didn't mind, for he merely remarked with a sigh:
gpt
Ah dear! One of these days my poor subjects will be sucked from the sea through a 2d. tube, straight to Billingsgate--I suppose that'll be the time for slumps and no mistake!
human
I suppress the Sole and Eel Course! he cried suddenly. There was a great stir in the water at this intimation.
gpt
It's a dance, he muttered.
human
Let's get on with the Cod Stakes.