human
Now that is my idea of enjoying oneself,
gpt
Yes, that is rational, sensible enjoyment, replied Ruth.
human
I wish sensible people would have the moral courage to act sensibly in this matter of rest and recreation. But it would shock a great many quite as much as it did Guy. Now I think it is well and often necessary for persons to have a more decided change, when their health requires it, and their means will allow. But this thing of going to fashionable resorts, for the sake of appearance, spending hundreds of dollars in mere dissipation; coming home envious and dissatisfied at the greater show made by others, instead of seeking change for the good of it, at the same time having their hearts drawn out after those less fortunate, is to me one of the greatest evils of the day.
gpt
WE had better engage Ann Smithers, said Ruth, after several old dresses had been cut down and made over for Martha.
human
She knows so well how to manage, and has patterns of the styles. With our help she can accomplish a great deal in a few days.
gpt
Do you think we can get new dresses this Fall? We have worn these faithfully, you know?
human
Not for some time, I fear; it takes a great deal to keep up a house these times. But it does not seem fair that you should give your money to me, Agnes. In future you had better keep what remains after paying for your board. It is not right to have you work hard and get so few clothes.
gpt
Do you get any more, and haven't I as good a right to do without things as you?
human
No, it is different. I keep the house, and perhaps things are not managed well. I don't know. I get bewildered at times to know which is the best way. But now that we have Martha and she understands her work so well, I intend to give music lessons this Fall. That will be a great help.
gpt
And yet, when you think _you_ ought to do this, you want _me_ to keep money from the house, so that I may have new dresses when I choose. O, Ruth, could you think me so selfish!
human
It would not be selfish, it would be right,