human
It is worth looking at, said Fox again. He looked at her, then. She was not laughing, but there was a merry look in her eyes.
gpt
What amuses you? I should rather like to know. Isn't my hat on straight?
human
I'll tell you before long. But it is really nothing.
gpt
The house looks as if it might have been a hotel, he remarked;
human
Yes, she replied,
gpt
And the barn, he went on,
human
That sounds very good. I know very little about such things.
gpt
I have had to know. It is a part of my business. That barn and that outfit would be very convenient if the house were--for instance--a private hospital. Now, wouldn't it?
human
Oh, Fox!
gpt
Now, wouldn't it?
human
Yes,
gpt
And the house seems not unsuitable for such a purpose. I have not been over the house.
human
Fox! Will you tell me what you mean?
gpt
The old skinflint who lives there says he can't sell it. He seemed very intelligent, too; intellect enough to name a price if he wanted to. And I would not stick at the price if it were within the bounds of reason.
human
I think, Mrs. Ladue remarked,
gpt
Why?
human
When you have shown me all you have to show, she answered, the look of quiet amusement again about her eyes and mouth,
gpt
I will tell you; that is, if you tell me first what you mean.
human
Get up, you ancient scion of a livery stable. The horse started reluctantly.
gpt
There is something else, he added,
human
I thought so, she said.
gpt
It is a square house, painted a cream color, with a few elms around it, and quite a grove at a little distance behind it.
human
It is. But you forgot the barn and the chicken-houses.
gpt
I didn't think of them.
human
And the well-sweep.
gpt
I'm afraid I didn't think of that, either.
human
I should really like to know how you knew, he observed, as if wondering.
gpt
Perhaps it is not worth while going there. But I want to see it again, if you don't.
human
Oh, I do. I am very much interested, and you know you are to tell me what you are planning.
gpt
Yes, he replied.
human
I meant to tell you. That was what I brought you for. But I thought you would be surprised and I hoped that you might be pleased.
gpt
Trust me for that, Fox, if your plans are what I hope they are. If they are, I shall be very happy.
human
Come in! Come in!