human
I hope it isn't this one, your Majesty! she said, in a voice of disappointment;
gpt
I beg your pardon, exclaimed John, hastily.
human
I am not cake, but gingerbread.
gpt
It's just the same, she answered, sighing;
human
Why are you so bloodthirsty?
gpt
Because I'm the Royal Executioner, I suppose, she answered.
human
I've held the office ever since my father was destroyed by an earthquake; but I've never yet executed a single person. The kinglet calls me in about a dozen times a day, but something always happens to rob me of my victim. I've worn out three sword blades, sharpening them, but I've never carved anything yet!
gpt
Be of good cheer, said his Majesty,
human
What, the dog? asked the girl, surprised. And Bebe began to scream loudly; and the fat man woke up and shook his head, and Chick patted both heads of the animal tenderly, and a guardsman cried out:
gpt
Oh, no, your Majesty!
human
And why not?
gpt
Why, this is the most valuable creature in all your dominions! said the guard.
human
Do you desire to rob yourself of such a treasure, your Majesty?
gpt
Is it so, Nebbie?
human
It is so, my Lord, answered the fat man.
gpt
If you want to butcher anything, cut up a few of the Royal Guards, or mince the Failings, or carve Chick, the Cherub. But the dog Duo is one of the remarkable features of your kingdom, and should be preserved at all hazards. Why, he's worth more than Bebe Celeste.
human
That reminds me of Bebe, said the kinglet, looking at the fat one sternly.
gpt
Take her away, guards, and stuff her with mashed potatoes and pate de foi gras. If she doesn't regain those two ounces in three days, she'll disgrace my kingdom, and I'll turn her over to the Royal Executioner.