human
Talbot, said Mr. Preston,
gpt
Good-morning, Paul, said Mr. Talbot pleasantly.
human
Mrs. Talbot tells me that you and your mother called last evening.
gpt
Yes, sir.
human
I was called away by an engagement, but I am glad to say that Mrs. Talbot approves my choice.
gpt
Thank you, sir.
human
I hear from Mr. Preston that you have been unfortunate in being burned out.
gpt
Yes, sir, we have been burned out, but we hadn't much to lose.
human
Were you able to save any of your clothing?
gpt
My mother saved a new dress she had just bought.
human
Was that all?
gpt
Yes, sir.
human
It will cost you considerable to replace what was destroyed.
gpt
Considerable for me, sir. I called this morning to ask Mr. Preston for fifty dollars, from the money he has of mine, to spend for clothes for my mother, and brother, and myself.
human
Will fifty dollars be sufficient?
gpt
I have some money on hand. That will be all I shall need to draw.
human
It will be a pity to disturb your savings. Your care of my house will be worth more than the rent. I will give you fifty dollars besides.
gpt
You are very kind, said Paul, in grateful surprise.
human
We felt well paid by having our rent free.
gpt
You are quite welcome, but I ought to tell you that it is to Mrs. Talbot you are indebted rather than to myself. She suggested my giving you the money, having been much pleased with your mother's appearance.
human
I am very much obliged to her also, then, said Paul,
gpt
I feel sure you will,
human
That is a fine boy,
gpt
He is an excellent boy, said Mr. Preston warmly.
human
He is straightforward, manly, and honest.
gpt
How did you fall in with him?
human
He fell in with me,
gpt
How is that?
human
As I was turning the corner of a street downtown one day he ran into me and nearly knocked the breath out of me.
gpt
Which prepossessed you in his favor?
human
Not at first. However, it led to a little conversation, by which I learned that he was a street candy merchant, and that some young thief had run off with all his stock in trade. He was then in hot pursuit. Learning that his mother was a seamstress and a worthy woman, I employed her to make me some shirts. I have followed the fortunes of the family, and have been Paul's adviser since then, and latterly his banker. He is now proprietor of a street-stand, and making, for a boy of his age, quite a fair income.
gpt
Your account interests me. If I am as well satisfied as I hope to be with the family I will hereafter seek out some way of serving him.
human
I am certain you will be satisfied.