human
No, no, let me alone, said Bikku.
gpt
Now you have made me drop the cap, and Grandfather will be angry.
human
Dear sir, said Grandmother, quite ashamed of Bikku,
gpt
Don't worry about the boy's talk, he is right in guarding the soldier's cap. Listen, Bikku, do you want to become a soldier like your Grandfather?
human
Grandfather says it depends upon whom I am to fight,
gpt
That is right, said the gentleman,
human
That, Captain, is because he wears trousers for the first time to-day, and that gives courage.
gpt
Rather say it is the old uniform which gives courage, said the General (for now he was a general).
human
Much gunpowder and much honor are hidden in that old uniform and the memories of it pass from generation to generation. But this is a new age and the boy may live to serve his country in many ways. Are you strong little man?
gpt
Yes, said the General,
human
I see you will be as strong as a bear when you are a little older. Will you go with me and eat soft bread and drink milk every day, and cakes and candy you may have too, if you are good?
gpt
And shall I have a horse to ride on?
human
Yes, of course,
gpt
I will stay with Grandfather and Grandmother.
human
But dear Bikku, said the old soldier, with tears in his eyes,
gpt
Grandfather gives you only hard bread, water and herring. Don't you hear that gentleman offers you soft bread, milk and other good things, and a horse to ride?
human
I want to stay with Grandfather, I won't leave Grandfather,
gpt
You are right, said the General and stroked Bikku's round cheek,
human
Yes,
gpt
God bless you child, said Grandfather and Grandmother, moved to tears.
human
And God bless our beloved country, and may he give it many loyal sons like you, little Bikku. Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.
gpt
That's written in my primer,
human
Yes, but it must be written in our hearts also,