human
Hello! said Chick.
gpt
We've come to see you.
human
I'm glad of that, answered the girl, in a soft voice, as she came close and kissed the Cherub's rosy mouth.
gpt
It has been dreadfully lonesome in this place without any one to play with or to keep me company. But may I inquire who you are?
human
This is John Dough, answered the Cherub, briefly;
gpt
I'm pleased to make your acquaintance, said the girl.
human
They call me the Princess; but that is in mockery, I am sure.
gpt
But are you not treated as a Princess?
human
Yes; and that is why I am so lonely, the girl replied, sadly.
gpt
The naughty Mifkets have made my poor father and mother their slaves, and mock me by shutting me in this tree-house and calling it a palace and me a Princess. But really I am as much a slave as either of my dear parents.
human
Can't you go out if you want to?
gpt
Oh, yes; but the island is small, and there is no one to play with except Pittypat, who is a white rabbit, and Para Bruin, who is a bouncing brown bear.
human
What strange companions! said John.
gpt
I've met Pittypat, and like the white rabbit very much; but a bouncing brown bear must be a dreadful creature.
human
Not at all, I assure you, returned the girl, earnestly.
gpt
Just wait until you meet him, and you'll see that he couldn't hurt any one if he would, and wouldn't if he could.
human
That's all right,
gpt
But do the Mifkets ill-treat you in any way?
human
Oh, no; until now they have done me no real injury whatever, the Princess answered,
gpt
Or with less, said John, with a shudder.
human
Nevertheless, we will meet the Mifkets boldly, and I am not going to make myself unhappy by being afraid of them.
gpt
Nor I, said Chick.
human
They're only beasts.
gpt
Then, if you will please follow me, I will lead you to the king's village, said the girl;
human
Very well, agreed John.
gpt
But I must tell you that we have already encountered three of these creatures, and defeated them easily.
human
I pounded 'em like sixty,