human
This is serious, said Templeton.
gpt
You see, we’ve no defence. We did break his hedge and disturb his tenant’s cattle, as he says. I wonder what the penalty is?
human
A fine of £5, old man, I expect, said Eves, cheerfully.
gpt
Don’t you worry; I did the damage, and I can’t pay.
human
I’m sure _I_ can’t. That glider cost £7 16*s.* 4*d*. I haven’t half £5.
gpt
Well, they’ll give us seven days C.B., or whatever they call it, and you’ll have to write to Aunt Caroline to bail us out. Jolly good idea! We’ll be able to give her tips in food economy after a week of prison fare.
human
It’s no joking matter. She’ll be upset; no Templeton of our family has ever been in prison.
gpt
You don’t say so! You’ll make a record, then. Splendid!
human
whispered Haylock as they passed him at the door.
gpt
He baint such a hanging judge, so to speak it, as Sir Timothy.
human
It was like this, sir, began Eves, before Templeton could start;
gpt
—the old gentleman looked interested—
human
But the principle of it is quite sound,
gpt
But, of course, you’re not concerned with principles here, sir, but only with law, Eves went on.
human
We didn’t know the field belonged to Mr. Noakes, or I assure you we wouldn’t have touched it with a pole, and as to damage, my friend offered to pay any reasonable sum.
gpt
But didn’t I understand that you caused the damage? the squire interposed, his eyes twinkling.
human
That being the case, ought not the offer to pay have come from you?
gpt
I’m afraid it ought, sir; but—well, I’ve only got four and elevenpence halfpenny.
human
Well, Mr. Templeton offered to pay, the squire went on.
gpt
What then?
human
Mr. Noakes wouldn’t hear of it, sir,
gpt
Is that so, Noakes?
human
Come, now, Noakes, brambles grow very fast, and any hedger will close the gap for eightpence. It’s a trumpery matter. You young fellows can pay half-a-crown between you for the damage, and Noakes must pay his own costs; it’s an unreasonable action. Call the next case.
gpt
Jolly old trump! said Eves as they went out.
human
And I’m jolly glad the old boy’s son is getting better.
gpt
I am delighted to hear, she wrote,
human
My hat! cried Eves, laughing.
gpt
What a rag! I’ll come with you, old man.