human
You can't come to terms, father?
gpt
We can't, and there was an ominous sparkle in Coulthurst's eyes.
human
I'm not sure that I wish to now. In fact, I've borne quite as much as I'm willing to put up with from both of them, and there's some reason, after all, in Esmond's plan. He'll give them another week, and then we'll cut our way in.
gpt
It's not your affair, and Grace started visibly.
human
You are the Gold Commissioner.
gpt
I am also entitled to the rank of major, and that, after all, means a good deal.
human
There is no other way than the one you are thinking of?
gpt
There are two, said Coulthurst drily.
human
We can sit still and starve, or march out and leave the valley in the possession of the miners while we try to break through the snow. Neither of them, however, commends itself to Esmond or me.
gpt
Of course! said Grace, with a little flush in her face, which, however, faded suddenly.
human
But suppose one or two of the troopers were killed while you forced the barricade?
gpt
Then, said Coulthurst,