human
Can we leave as soon as the ship comes?
gpt
That, Betty, is in the hands of a very uncertain woman, I judge, smiled Mr. Lee.
human
It will be necessary to do whatever Mr. Murchison himself would be obliged to do. I shall handle the matter as well as I can.
gpt
Are you scared because she is a countess?
human
Scarcely. But be as polite and helpful as you can, Betty. Having you will make it all easier, I think. Privately, Betty, I gathered that Miss Murchison was very badly spoiled as a girl. People exist to do her pleasure. See?
gpt
And we pretend that we like it?
human
No--it is not necessary to pretend anything. We really want to help them, do we not?
gpt
Oh, yes; but I _dee-spise_ being patronized.
human
Of course. A true lady, however, does not show it--indeed, it is almost impossible to patronize a true lady.
gpt
Hum. That is all very well in theory, my precious father, but--well, I suppose I'm not a true lady inside!
human
Stars! cried Betty.
gpt
Now we're late, and no knowing what has happened to the countess!
human
We shall not worry about being late, Betty. They have to get through customs first and it is doubtful if all the baggage is off the vessel as yet. It can not have been in long.