human
Hello, he said, as he drew up the dumb-waiter,
gpt
Have they all gone?
human
They sure have! You and I are here all alone.
gpt
Oh, Bill! and Patty's lip quivered a little.
human
How COULD you do that? What SHALL I do?
gpt
Now don't get ruffled, little one; my train goes in twenty minutes. You're going to the station to see me off, and then Barker will take you on to the Country Club to join the rest of them. You won't be half an hour late!
human
Why stay in this queer place? she said.
gpt
Why not go out on the veranda?
human
No; there are eleven hundred servants bobbing up everywhere! Here I can have you all to myself long enough to make you answer one question. Apple Blossom, will you marry me?
gpt
No, sir; thank you,
human
You mean it, don't you? he said, returning her gaze.
gpt
And why not, little girl?
human
Because, Billee, I don't want to marry anybody,--at least, not for years and years. I like you AWFULLY,--and I appreciate all your kindness, and your,--your liking for me----
gpt
Don't say liking, sweetheart; it's love,--deep, true, BIG love for you,--you little sunbeam. Oh, Patty, CAN'T you?
human
No, Little Billee, I can't,--but,--but I DO like to have you love me like that!
gpt
Then I shall WAIT, dear! and Bill's voice was full of triumphant gladness.
human
If you like to have me love you, I can hope and believe that some day you'll love me. You ARE too young, dear, you're just a little girl, I know.
gpt
Why, I'm not even 'out,' said Patty.
human
I'm to come out next winter, you know.
gpt
Yes, and then you'll have lots of admirers, and they'll flatter you, but they won't spoil you. I know your sweet, simple, generous nature; it can't be spoiled, even by the foolishnesses of society.
human
Will YOU come to my coming-out party, Bill?
gpt
I don't know, perhaps so. I may see you before then. And I'll write to you, mayn't I, Apple Blossom?
human
Oh, yes, do! I love to get letters, and I know I'll love yours.
gpt
DO love them, dear, and perhaps, through them, learn to love,--Jiminetty Christmas, Apple Blossom, I've just ten minutes to catch that train! Come on, dear, fly with me, at least to the railroad station!