human
I always give my dinners on Sunday. I've no time any other day, said he, when Miss Leaf gently hesitated.
gpt
Come or not, just as you like.
human
For you must be aware, Miss Leaf, that though your nephew's allowance is nothing--a mere drop in the bucket out of my large income--still, when it comes year after year, and no chance of his shifting for himself, the most benevolent man in the world feels inclined to stop the supplies. Not that I shall do that--at least not immediately: he is a fine young fellow, whom I'm rather proud to have helped a step up the ladder, and I've a great respect --here he bowed to Miss Selina--
gpt
I do, Miss Leaf answered, trying to speak with dignity, and yet with patience, for she saw Hilary's face beginning to flame.
human
And I trust, Mr. Ascott, my nephew will soon cease to be an expense to you. It was your own voluntary kindness that brought it upon yourself, and I hope you have not found, never will find, either him or us ungrateful.
gpt
Oh, as to that, ma'am, I don't look for gratitude. Still, if Ascott does work his way into a good position--and he'll be the first of his family that ever did, I reckon--but I beg your pardon, Miss Leaf. Ladies, I'll bid you good day. Will your servant call my carriage?
human
If I were Ascott, I'd rather starve in a garret, break stones in the high road, or buy a broom and sweep a crossing, than I'd be dependent on this man, this pompous, purse-proud, illiterate fool!
gpt
No, not a fool, reproved Johanna.
human
An acute, clear-headed, nor, I think, bad-hearted man. Coarse and common, certainly; but if we were to hate every thing coarse or common, we should find plenty to hate. Besides, though he does his kindness in an unpleasant way, think how very, very kind he has been to Ascott.
gpt
Johanna, I think you would find a good word for the de'il himself, as we used to say, cried Hilary, laughing.
human
Well, Selina; and what is your opinion of our stout friend?