human
It is all done, Rob, practically finished,
gpt
Don't get excited, Patergrey; you know it is forbidden you, cried Rob, beginning to quiver in sympathy.
human
Yes, it's done. Sit down; you look pale--let me get you a tablet.
gpt
Rob, you've been my right hand--my extra pair of hands--all the way through, said her father, impatiently waving away the suggestion of a tablet.
human
You've had so much faith, dear son Rob, and have understood so clearly that you have helped me in that way almost more than in any other. Now I am going to ask you to help me still further. Have you any special use for the first hundred and twenty-five dollars from your story-telling?
gpt
So many special uses that I've no special use--no, Patergrey, laughed Rob.
human
There are so many things to be done with it that I can't see one for the crowd of them. It is all for Mardy and Wythie, though. They go without so slyly that I want every penny of this to buy things for them.
gpt
You generous Rob-of-mine! exclaimed her father.
human
Then would it disappoint you to lend me rather more than half of your wealth, to launch the bricquette machine? It requires a very small capital, but it needs that to start it on its journey into the world. I should rather like to have my girl's money--the very first that she ever earned--do this for the invention in which she has had such a share through its entire growth.
gpt
Like it, Patergrey! I'd love it! cried Rob, her eyes dilating, her cheeks flushing.
human
I'll get the money now--I've hidden it in my twine-bag, real country fashion. How strange for my money to launch the machine! Can it do it, really, Patergrey?
gpt
It really can. I will take but fifty dollars now, Rob, but I may need more. There must be photographs and plates made, some printing done. I would prefer your money to do this, if the idea pleases you.