human
How do they take pictures, Mamma? I mean, what does the man do, when he goes behind that queer machine thing and sticks his head under the cloth, and then after a while claps in something that looks like my tracing-slate and then pops it out again? What makes the picture?
gpt
The sun makes the picture. It is so strong and clear that though it is such a long distance away it shines down upon the object that is to be photographed and reflects its image through a lens in the camera upon a plate which is _sensitized_ (that is, coated with a sort of gelatine that is so sensitive that it holds the impression cast upon it until by the aid of certain acids and processes it can be made permanent, that is, lasting). I am afraid I have not succeeded in explaining so you understand very clearly; have I, Sweetheart?
human
Ye-es, she replied listlessly.
gpt
I guess I know now. You said--the sun--did--it; the sun took our pictures. It's very strange--to think--the sun--does--it.
human
Come, Marjorie! Want to go travelling?
gpt
No, thank you; not just now, replied Marjorie, slowly.
human
I am going to have my photograph taken in a little while,--just as soon as all these stupid folks get theirs done. I should n't have time to go anywhere hardly; and besides it 'd tire me, and I want to look all fresh and neat, so the picture will be pretty.
gpt
But suppose we promised, honor bright--
human
Begging your pardon, broke in another voice,
gpt
Suppose we promised faithfully, continued the first voice, pretending not to notice the interruption,
human
Of course, assented Marjorie, at once.
gpt
It 's awful tiresome,--this; it makes me feel just as sleepy as can be. But what 's the use of talking? I can't leave here or I 'd lose my chance, and besides Mamma never lets me go out with strangers.
human
We 're not strangers, asserted the voice, calmly;
gpt
Well, if you're perfectly sure you 'll take care of me, and that you 'll bring me back in time, I guess I will.