human
We might, said Clithering,
gpt
We realize it, I said,
human
You don't mean to say, said Clithering,
gpt
We did. In fact one of the alternatives which I am empowered to offer you--
human
Offer us! But we--we are--I mean to say that the terms of settlement must, of course, be dictated by us.
gpt
Not at all, I said.
human
Godfrey, you can't write shorthand, I know; but you must try and take down what I'm going to say now as accurately as possible. I'll speak quite slowly. The Government--I mean, of course, so far as Ulster is concerned, the late Government--your Government--must either conduct the war in a proper business-like way--have you got that down, Godfrey?
gpt
Do you mean, said Clithering,
human
I mean, I said,
gpt
Yes, said Clithering,
human
I'm waiting, I said,
gpt
But--but--but--
human
And leave us to manage Ireland ourselves. Got that, Godfrey?
gpt
But, said Clithering;
human
We don't. We won't have it at any price.
gpt
But that is Home Rule of the most extreme kind.
human
There's no use splitting hairs, I said,
gpt
Will you excuse me? said Clithering.
human
This is all rather surprising. May I call up the Prime Minister on the telephone?
gpt
Certainly, I said.
human
I'm in no hurry. But be sure you put it to him distinctly. I don't want to have any misunderstanding.