human
Old Silas died, announced Annys, gravely,
gpt
I have just come from there.
human
And how is dear Betty?
gpt
I did not get to her last night, he said in some confusion. Rose laughed to herself. Matilda looked grieved.
human
Ah, the poor girl! she said,
gpt
Oh, these lovers will be the death of me! broke out Rose, no longer able to contain herself.
human
Were I blessed with a lover, now, I vow it would not be of corpses and dying girls we would talk!
gpt
Be quiet, Rose! exclaimed Matilda, sternly for her,
human
That's what I complain of!
gpt
When will be the happy day?
human
I have a journey to take, he said in a strained voice.
gpt
I leave to-morrow. I do not know just when I can return.
human
Yea, I have received an urgent call. I had come to tell thee.
gpt
Wilt return for the Fair?
human
Surely, he answered,
gpt
I have promised to be there. Men will gather there from every county.
human
I will be there,
gpt
And Matilda, too, surely?
human
I may not be spared,
gpt
Oh, yes, Matilda is the saint. I am the selfish, wilful one,
human
I must go to Betty now, Annys said.
gpt
Good-by, Matilda, I shall see thee soon again--immediately after the Fair.
human
Be _sure_ to return in time from that _important_ mission!