human
Well, my sweet mistress, said this curious-looking being, rising as if about to take her leave,
gpt
I must tear myself away from your enchanting presence, to return to the high personages who sent me, with the joyful news of the prospect of your quick return to health; but, ere I go, I must acquit me of my mission, and deliver this holy relic, with which I was charged, as a sovereign remedy against all human ills. Saying which, she produced a small silver casket, from a large bag which she carried in the shape of a reticule, adding,
human
Know that it contains part of the precious remains of the most holy Saint Anthony, being his true and veritable little finger, presented to her majesty by the pious father Malagrida, who certified the many miracles it had worked in the various parts of the world to which he had borne it. You will find therein that which will cure you of your malady in the space of a few hours, if you keep it in your own possession,
gpt
Express my gratitude to her majesty for her bounteous kindness in remembering me, answered the young lady,
human
she added, laughing.
gpt
But, remember, Donna Florinda, that is not to be a part of the message you are to deliver.
human
Oh no, answered the jet-coloured little lady;
gpt
My illness was one imposed on me by my honoured father, at the instigation of his lady wife, to prevent my attendance at Court, answered the young lady; her eye flashing angrily as she spoke.
human
Thank Heaven! I shall soon be my own mistress, nor will I yield again to their unjust commands.
gpt
Spoken like a girl of spirit, said the Dwarf.
human
I like those who will never submit to tyranny; and be assured that his majesty will much applaud your determination, for all the Court mourn the absence of its brightest ornament. But I must not stay chattering here, or it will be supposed I am lost, and then there will be a hue and cry all over Lisbon in search of me; for I am much too valuable a person not to be a prize to any who could carry me off.
gpt
You would indeed be a treasure, Donna Florinda, to the happy person who possessed you, but their majesties esteem you far too much to part with you willingly,
human
Methinks they do, and I have no intention of quitting them. I know when I am well off.--Now, again, my sweetest friend, adieu.