human
I think the senior class can stand a little, don't you, General?
gpt
You're over-young to be in it, my dear.
human
I'm not unhappy, and I don't reckon myself unfortunate, because I think that, to some extent at least, I can learn. The only really unhappy people are people who can't learn at all, I think. Fancy going through it all and learning absolutely nothing!
gpt
I'll take the steps gently--Bertie can overtake me. _Au revoir_, Miss Winnie, in London!
human
You slept well?
gpt
Oh yes. Why not? I was so at peace. Say nothing this morning. We said good-bye last night.
human
Yes, I know, but---- He was obviously embarrassed.
gpt
But I want to ask you one thing. It'll seem jolly absurd, I know, and rather conceited.
human
Will it?
gpt
Well, if there should be any little row in India--I know people at home don't take much notice of them--any little expedition or anything of that kind, could you keep your eye on it? Because we might have the luck to be in it, and I should like you to know how the regiment shows up.
human
If you've the luck to be getting killed, I'll read about it, said Winnie. She smiled with trembling lips.
gpt
It's really the least I can do for a friend, Major Merriam.
human
Killed? Oh, rot! Just see first how near to full strength we turn out--that's my great test--and then, if you read of any other fellows showing us the way, you might let me know, and I'll inquire about it--because we don't reckon to let it happen very often. Hullo, that whistle really sounds as if she meant business! He gripped her hand tightly and looked into her eyes.
gpt
Here's the end, Winnie!
human
I wouldn't have had it not happen; would you?
gpt
I shall often wonder if I did right.
human
You needn't. What you did would have made no difference--only you'd have been a little less loyal to your duty.
gpt
I wish I knew what was going to become of you.
human
I'm not afraid any more. God bless you, dear.
gpt
You've no grudge against me?
human
Oh, please, please!