human
My name is Fellows. What do you want with me?
gpt
You see who I am, Mr. Fellows; not always the most welcome of visitors?
human
That’s true, sir, no doubt; but I have no reason to regard you as unwelcome.
gpt
Nor will you, added Puffey,
human
I am commissioned by the Major, said Puffey,
gpt
Many of these men, replied Fellows,
human
That ends my mission with you, said Puffey.
gpt
Not a very terrifying one, you must admit.
human
Are you satisfied with your present occupation?
gpt
Yes; don’t I look as if I was?
human
It was only a passing thought, which that moment occurred to me; you are just the sort of chap we could very well do with in our force. Would you care to join us?
gpt
No such idea has ever entered my head, and I don’t feel as if I should much care for the life.
human
Well, I’ve no authority to ask you, but you might think it over.
gpt
No harm in my doing that,
human
How old are you, if it is not a rude question to ask?
gpt
Just turned twenty-nine.
human
English, I judge?
gpt
Yes.
human
Been long in the Colony?
gpt
Only about seven months.
human
Any trade or profession?
gpt
Was a commercial in the Old Country.
human
Married or single?
gpt
Single.
human
Hope to remain so?
gpt
That depends on circumstances.
human
You’ll excuse my being so inquisitive, but I wished to make sure you were qualified for the post I just now suggested to you; and from all you tell me, I have no reason to doubt but our people would only be too pleased to accept you if you choose to apply.
gpt
Thanks; I’ll think about it.
human
A question sure to be asked, and therefore one I may as well put: Any special reason for changing a commercial life for an agricultural one?
gpt
N—o; except that I was not getting on as well as I should have liked, and so determined to make an entire change.