human
What were you doing in that tree?
gpt
Eating bananas,
human
Does your mother permit that?
gpt
My mother allows me to climb trees and eat bananas, said Affonzo.
human
That was not a disobedience, but--
gpt
But what?
human
But, continued Affonzo slowly.
gpt
She had at the hour of the siesta requested me to keep quiet.
human
Do you call this quiet? asked his father sternly though his eyes twinkled.
gpt
Such a noise has not been heard at the Fazenda for many days.
human
Not very quiet, said Affonzo, his head drooping, though he could scarce keep from laughing again.
gpt
I ask your pardon, my uncle, he added.
human
I intended nothing of disrespect. I did but lose my hold upon the tree and the next thing I knew I sat astride of your august shoulders. I pray you pardon me.
gpt
Say no more of it, said his uncle, as he laid his hand on the boy's head.
human
Boys will be boys and Affonzo is not unlike others. But next time I come do not receive me with such a fierce embrace. Indeed I thought my neck was broken with the warmth of your welcome.
gpt
I excuse you since your uncle asks it, but remember after this that the commands of your mother are to be obeyed. Go now with your uncle and attend to his wants while he repairs the damage your carelessness has wrought.
human
I wonder what he meant about Juan but I am afraid to ask. And the worst of it all is, that now I shall never know how the American melon tasted.