human
Do watch him a bit if you can, Mrs. Charmian, for over-elaboration. Don't let him work it to death, I mean, till all the spontaneity is gone. I believe that's a danger with him. Somehow I think he lacks complete confidence in himself.
gpt
You see it's the first time he has ever tried to do an opera.
human
I know. It's natural enough. But do watch out for over-elaboration.
gpt
I'll try to. But I have to be very careful with Claude.
human
How d'you mean exactly?
gpt
He can be very reserved.
human
Yes, but you know how to take him. And--well--we can't let the opera be anything but a big success, can we?
gpt
I say, shall we walk around the garden? Alston added, after a pause.
human
It isn't quite time to go, and I want to talk over things before Claude comes down to see the last of me.
gpt
Yes, yes.
human
I wanted to tell you, Mrs. Charmian, that I'm going to bring Crayford over whatever happens, whether the opera's done or not. There's heaps ready for him to judge by. And you must read him the libretto.
gpt
I?
human
Yes, you. Study it up! Recite it to yourself. Learn to give it all and more than its value. That libretto is going to catch hold of Crayford right away, if you read it, and read it well.