human
Oh, I am all right,
gpt
I don't quite understand you, Sib. You have rather avoided me during the last day or two. Is it because I am a Speciality? I do hope that will make no difference with my old friends.
human
Oh no, said Sibyl.
gpt
There's nothing so wonderful in being a Speciality, is there?
human
Well, to me it is very wonderful, she said;
gpt
Oh Martha, are they so good as all that?
human
They are,
gpt
It's so queer about Betty, said Sibyl after a pause.
human
She seemed to be such a very popular Speciality. Then, all of a sudden, she ceased to be one at all. I can't understand it.
gpt
And you are never likely to, Sibyl. What happens in the club is only known to its members.
human
You will forgive me, Martha, she said;
gpt
No, Sibyl, I sha'n't. When you want me you must try to find me yourself. I don't understand what is the matter with you to-day.
human
Come in!
gpt
Well?
human
I have done what you wanted, said Sibyl.
gpt
I watched her, and I saw. Afterwards I went to the place where she had hidden it. I took it. It is in my pocket. Please take it from me. I have done what you wished. I want to get rid of it, and never to think of it again. Fanny, when shall I be elected a Speciality?
human
When shall I become a Speciality?
gpt
Don't whisper, child! The Vivians' room is next to mine. Sibyl, we must keep this a most profound secret, I am awfully obliged to you! You have been very clever and prompt. I don't wish to ask any questions at all. Thank you, Sibyl, from my heart. I will certainly keep my promise, and at the next meeting will propose you as a member. Whether you are elected or not must, of course, depend on the votes of the majority. In the meanwhile forget all this. Be as usual with your schoolfellows. Rest assured of my undying friendship and gratitude. Keep what you have done a profound secret; if anything leaks out there is no chance of your becoming a Speciality. Now, good-bye Sibyl. I mustn't be seen to take any special notice of you; people are very watchful in cases of this sort. But remember, though I don't talk to you a great deal, I shall be your true friend; and after you have become a member of our club there will, of course, be no difficulty.
human
Oh, I should love to be a member! said Sibyl.
gpt
I do so hate the tea in the refectory, and you do seem to have such cosy times in your sitting-room.
human
May I give you one word of warning? she said.
gpt
You made a very great mistake to-day when you did not seem willing to pay Martha West a visit. Your election depends far more on Martha than on me. Between now and Thursday--when I mean to propose you as a member in place of Betty Vivian, who has forfeited her right for ever--Martha will be your most valuable ally. I do not say you will be elected--for the rules of the club are very strict, and we are most exclusive--but I will do my utmost.
human
But you promised! I thought I was sure!
gpt
Nonsense, nonsense, child! I said I would do my best. Now, keep up your friendship with Martha--that is, if you are wise.
human
After all, Betty had not said the thing was wood; but when Sibyl had asked her she had said,
gpt
Have it so if you like.