human
It cost me a penknife. But it was dirt cheap at the price. You can’t expect to be the Almighty for much less than a penknife. Seeing Edwin, he added with a nonchalant smile:
gpt
I’ve told Mrs. Clayhanger all about the answer to prayer. I thought she ought to know.
human
Ingpen, my boy, you ought to have thought of my position first. You’ve been putting your finger into a rather delicate piece of mechanism. Supposing she cuts up rough with me afterwards for hiding it from her all this time! ... I’m living with her. You aren’t.
gpt
Of course, Ingpen added.
human
I’ve sworn the lady to secrecy.
gpt
I knew all the time there was something wrong.
human
No, you didn’t. And if he hadn’t happened to tell you about the thing, you’d have been convinced that you’d been alarming yourself for nothing.
gpt
There’s no doubt George ought to be punished.
human
Nothing of the kind! Nothing of the kind! Ingpen vivaciously protested.
gpt
Why, bless my soul! The kids were engaged in a religious work. They were busy with someone far more important than any parents. And after a pause, reflectively:
human
Curious thing, the mentality of a child! I doubt if we understand anything about it.
gpt
May I enquire what there is in that bottle?
human
Benedictine.
gpt
Have some, Mr. Ingpen.
human
I will if you will, Mrs. Clayhanger.
gpt
You needn’t look at me! said Hilda.
human
I’m going to have some.
gpt
It’s a very bad thing late at night, of course. But I believe in giving your stomach something to think about. I never allow my digestive apparatus to boss me.
human
Quite right, Mr. Ingpen.
gpt
Well, thought Edwin,
human
Be a man, Clayhanger, and have some.