human
Dr. Leaver can't be quite well, Red,--to look like that?
gpt
I should say not. I haven't asked him a question and he hasn't said a word, but it shows all over him. He's not my old friend Jack Leaver, at all, and it upsets me. I'm hoping he'll unload, and tell me what's wrong, though I can guess fairly well for myself. I could see, all through our consultation, that he held himself in hand with an effort. The old keenness was there, but not the old command. He's worn out, for one thing,--though there may be more than that. But, see here,--do you mean to tell me that's Amy Mathewson you've got downstairs? Never! It might be her younger sister--six years younger--but not my staid nurse. Not even you could bring about such a miracle.
human
Isn't it wonderful? Yet--it isn't, at all. She's always worn her hair strained back from her face and put up into that tight coil on the top of her head. Dressing it properly has made two thirds of the difference and the apricot frock makes the other third. Isn't it delightful?
gpt
No doubt of that. She's a mighty good girl, and if she can make shift to be a good-looking one as well, there may be a bit of fun left in life for her yet. She's by no means old, and you've made her young,--bless your generous heart! I don't know how you ever managed to get her consent, though. She thinks that uniform is her shell, and can't be doffed. But I don't think she's likely to get much fun out of Leaver to-night. He's just about fit for bed, or I'm no diagnostician.
human
Then let's put him there,
gpt
Oh, I don't mean that literally. One of your dinners ought to set him up, and Amy Mathewson won't make any exacting demands on his brilliancy.
human
Won't she? You can't tell what pretty clothes may do for her. She will surprise you some time, in spite of the fact that you know her so well.
gpt
Wise woman. She will, if you have a hand in the game. You can be trusted to bring out every one's best. Bother this tie--it acts like original sin.
human
I won't offer to tie it for you. I can't imagine Redfield Pepper Burns allowing his wife to tie his cravat for him.
gpt
Can't you? That is to say, won't you?
human
It would destroy a certain ideal. Stop laughing! One of your most powerful charms for me is your independence.
gpt
I thought all women delighted in getting their husband's neckwear adjusted according to their own notions. Another dream shattered!--Well, here goes for the last time. If I can't get it right now I'll go in and implore Jack to do it for me. It will open his eyes as to how far hopes may be slain by realities. There! That's a pretty good result, at last. I'll go across now, and see if he wants any of my assistance.