human
Then you wouldn’t have any rent to pay.
gpt
How true! said Edwin, rallying her.
human
But it would stand me in a loss, because I should have to pay too much for the place.
gpt
Why? she cried, in arms.
human
Why should Maggie ask too much just because you want it? And think of all the money you’ve spent on it!
gpt
The money spent on it only increases its value to Maggie. You don’t seem to understand landlordism, my child. But that’s not the point at all. Maggie won’t ask any price. Only I couldn’t decently pay her less than the value she took the house over at when we divided up. To wit, £1,800. It ain’t worth that. I only pay £60 rent.
human
If she took it over at too high a value that’s her look-out,
gpt
Not at all. She was a fool. Albert and Clara persuaded her. It was a jolly good thing for them. I couldn’t very well interfere.
human
It seems a great shame you should have to pay for what Albert and Clara did.
gpt
I needn’t unless I want to. Only, if I buy the house, £1,800 will have to be the price.
human
Well, said Hilda.
gpt
I wish you’d buy it.
human
Would she feel more at home if he did?
gpt
Yes, she would.
human
And suppose Mag won’t sell?
gpt
Will you allow me to mention it to her?
human
I don’t mind,
gpt
Well, one of these days I just will.
human
It is marvellous. I can do what I like with him. When I use a particular tone, and look at him in a particular way, I can do what I like with him.