human
This is a rather unpleasant wind-up to our expectations, Charley?
gpt
We’ve been together now ever since we were babies, and although there will come a time when we must be separated, it does seem a pity that out here it should have to take place in such a manner.
human
Well, who’s to blame?
gpt
You heard what Ranger said?
human
And of course you believe him?
gpt
I don’t say that I do. I want to hear your version of his story.
human
You heard what I said also?
gpt
That amounted to nothing. You had better have told him you had not written the letter.
human
Why should I? What right had he to ask such a question?
gpt
It would have been so easy, and would have no doubt put an end to the matter.
human
Don’t you believe it. That man had come with his mind made up, and any denials on my part would have been of no avail.
gpt
It would have put him to the proof of his statement, at all events; and we should have known better the value to attach to it.
human
Well, Charley, I am sorry to be obliged to confess it, but from the way in which you avoid the question, I am beginning to be of the opinion there must be some truth in Ranger’s charge. Tell me candidly, did you write that letter?
gpt
Don’t you bother your head about what you have nothing to do with.
human
It _is_ something I have to do with. You are my brother, and we are the only remaining members of a once united and happy family. Anything that affects your honour or happiness equally affects mine, and I hope you feel the same towards myself. If we are to be separated,—as seems very probable,—don’t let it be in anger. If you will give me the assurance that Ranger is mistaken, and that you did not write the letter, I’ll believe you.
gpt
It’s a question that neither you nor Ranger have any right to ask. I shall give no further answer. You may both think what you like, and do as you like. I shall answer no more questions.