human
I say, girls! She said in an animated tone, which instantly secured the attention of every one present, at the same time moving nearer the window for the purpose, as it seemed, of obtaining better light.
gpt
Have you heard the news?
human
What news?
gpt
Why, that Minnie Kimberly has turned Methodist.
human
What?
gpt
Methodist, repeated Mona, quite enjoying their mystification.
human
One of those people who profess to go about continually doing good with tracts in their pocket--though it's my private opinion they usually contrive to do the very opposite. That's the sort of thing Minnie's going in for just now, though I really think she is a little ashamed of it, she keeps it so well hidden. You see my penetration was not at fault--I said it was revival meetings or something of that sort.
gpt
Yes, isn't it fun! Quite a romance I'm sure! A sort of juvenile Mrs. Fry or some person of that stamp, converting the heathen down in Hollowmell.
human
O, hush!
gpt
I do not know what you may mean to insinuate by calling me Methodist as you did just now. It may either be that you intend it as a term of reproach to me, or as a mark of disrespect to the worthy body of people who bear that name--
human
You hear her! Interrupted Mona with a laugh,
gpt
I mean to say, continued Minnie, ignoring the interruption,
human
Ah! replied Mona with a sneer, as no one else spoke,
gpt
It is certainly flattering to know you take such an interest in my proceedings, she began, angrily, then checking herself hastily, she continued in a softer tone:
human
I don't know why you should say such a thing of me, Mona. What I have done (and the motive I had for keeping it secret, was because it was so little), I have done from a simple wish to make my life of some use, and benefit my father's tenants.
gpt
I do not fear to say I am a Christian, continued Minnie, turning to the other girls after a short pause.
human
Even in spite of Mona's sarcasm, and though I do often come short of what one bearing that name should be, I am not the less determined to persevere in my endeavours to make these failures as few and far between as possible; and that any one here will intentionally attempt to frustrate these efforts I cannot believe.
gpt
That is a challenge directed to me, I suppose,
human
For shame, Mona! cried one of the girls with warmth.
gpt
Your sharpness is no match for Minnie's earnestness, I am sure all here think so!
human
Yes, yes!
gpt
And I, for one, continued the young lady who had spoken,