human
Where is Nap?
gpt
Come here, Bertie,
human
Where is Nap?
gpt
May I know what you were going to say to Miss Waring just now?
human
I was going to ask her to overlook that cad's vile insinuations--and marry me.
gpt
And that was the very thing she didn't want you to do,
human
I can't help it. There was a stubborn note in Bertie's voice.
gpt
She shan't think I'm a blackguard like Nap.
human
We will leave Nap out of it,
gpt
Why? demanded Bertie hotly.
human
He was responsible. He insulted a guest under your roof. Are you going to put up with that? Because I'm not!
gpt
My dear fellow, it is I, not you, who must deal with that.
human
That's all very well, but--dash it, Lucas, you're always holding me back. And I can't knock under to you in this. I'm sorry, but I can't. I'm going to have it out with Nap. Whatever you may say, it is more my business than yours.
gpt
You must let me go. I shall hurt you if you don't.
human
You will hurt me if I do, boy,
gpt
I know, and I'm sorry. But I can't help it. There are times when a man--if he is a man--must act for himself. And I-- he broke off, still chafing, his hand seeking without violence to free him from that hold which could not have been so very powerful, though it resisted his efforts.
human
Luke, he said suddenly, and the anger was gone from his voice,
gpt
All right, Bertie! Go!