human
And now I have a surprise for you, said Mary.
gpt
You're coming to the party yourself!
human
I?
gpt
You're quite well enough, and I'll need your help, my dear. I'm counting on you.
human
But, Mary--oh, I can't.
gpt
Nonsense. I've spoken to Miss Marshall about it. I explained I had a friend who had also done secretarial work and who really knew a great deal more about it than I do, and she said by all means to bring you. There won't really be anything for you to do, but you'll just be there in case we need some expert advice.
human
I don't believe I'm strong enough,
gpt
Yes, you are. I asked the doctor. He said it would do you good.
human
But I haven't a dress, Mary.
gpt
Yes, you have. I've ordered one--one for you and one for me. They're with the compliments of Miss Marshall, they're perfect dreams and we're the luckiest people alive.
human
You're a conspirator, complained Nell.
gpt
Honestly, Mary, I don't think I ought to go. I'm sure I shouldn't.
human
Nell Norcross, you've got to go. I won't let you stay away. It's time you did something. Here I've been skating along on thin ice, bluffing and pretending and telling fibs until I hardly know which is my real name--yours or mine. Now I've reached the very climax and you've got to see me through. I'm going to be adamant.
gpt
You're a whole lot bossier than you were the day I met you in the Brain Workers' Exchange,
human
Don't ever mention that place, and Mary made a grimace.
gpt
It gives me crawly little chills.
human
Will I have to bring any more references?
gpt
No, you silly thing. References, indeed! Why, Nell, you won't go to this party on references. You'll go on my reputation!
human
Mary Wayne, I'm in awe of you.
gpt
You wouldn't be if you knew how much I feel like a charlatan. It's all on the outside, Nell. I am just hollow emptiness; the shell is the only thing that holds me together.
human
I'll go if you'll let me meet the Italian sculptor, she said.
gpt
I adore sculptors.
human
You can meet the sculptor and the bishop both, promised Mary.
gpt
And if you're very good I'll let you meet the valet.
human
But not, of course, Mr. Marshall.
gpt
Pooh! That's nothing exciting. Anybody can meet him, my dear.
human
Mary, said Nell,