human
What have I done! What's the matter with me?
gpt
Nothing. There has been nothing at all. Ethel found it hard to speak.
human
You've been--quite wonderful with Susette. The trouble is that Mr. Lanier has found he must cut expenses.
gpt
Oh. Then why am I the one? She broke off and grew rigid, but her thought struck into Ethel's mind:
human
Why am I the one? Why don't you go! What good are _you_ here?
gpt
I'm sorry, Ethel repeated.
human
I wish I could keep you, but I can't. I'll have to take care of Susette myself--
gpt
You?
human
Yes, and you'll have to teach me how.
gpt
I won't!
human
You mean you'll let her suffer because you haven't shown me things? No, no, I'm sure you'll be sensible. You'll stay on a few days and help me, and meanwhile I'll do all I can to find you a good position. I only hope I can get you back again in the autumn. You see it may only be for a time. She went to the nurse, who now had her arms about the child.
gpt
I'm so sorry. Remember I want you back.
human
Whew! She went into her own small room.
gpt
I wonder if I'll ever feel like that about a child? She stared a moment and added,
human
That was real enough, poor thing. She drew a resolute breath.
gpt
Well, no use in feeling like a criminal, my dear. Now for the cook and the waitress.