human
Mother really wanted to have her office curtains made of antiseptic gauze, said Catherine.
gpt
Why don't you two say anything?
human
You interrupted me just as I was having an inspiration,
gpt
O, what a pity, sighed Hannah.
human
Because Catherine is bored.
gpt
Bored? Catherine? Did she tell you so?
human
Yes, I did, said Catherine stoutly.
gpt
I knew they were, too; and I thought if I owned up that I was, they would say they were, but they won't.
human
Incorruptible politeness! said Dr. Helen.
gpt
How do you account for your own sudden ennui?
human
It's not just to-day, said Catherine.
gpt
I really think my life is rather dull, anyhow. Of course, having the girls here is quite an event, but I wish there were big, exciting things I had to do or see to. Mending, and helping Inga make salads and beds, and even going to college is tiresome. Just what every one else does. And the worst of it is that every one expects me to be enthusiastic all the time!
human
This heat is enough to make any one cross, she said.
gpt
I suppose the rest of you feel the same way, but, being guests, don't dare say so?
human
Do prescribe for us, Dr. Helen, begged Hannah.
gpt
I don't feel especially bored just now, but I often do. Going to Europe was the only event in my life!
human
And going to college in mine!
gpt
Coming here is all that has ever happened to me,
human
You poor things! It is a serious state of affairs. I suppose you pine for kidnappers, or lovers or financial difficulties or fearful illnesses or Arctic explorations.
gpt
Exactly! cried Catherine.
human
Especially the last, on a day like this. But, really, Mother, of course, I don't feel as I said more than once in a great while, and I was talking to amuse myself; but can't you suggest something for us to do this afternoon? The more we lie around and keep cool, the warmer we grow. The Boat Club seems to have tired of picnics, and I want to do something while Alice is here,--something really interesting and pleasant to remember, something we didn't plan ourselves.
gpt
Yes, do tell us something,
human
Don't talk, she said,
gpt
Agreed!