book_id
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| title
stringclasses 1
value | author
stringclasses 1
value | conversations
listlengths 1
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|---|---|---|---|
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ned,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Tom,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you hear that noise--like a cannon-shot?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ya-i-o-u yes--som'ing tumbled--door bang'd,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hallo, Ned! cried Tom, suddenly leaping out of bed and beginning to dress in haste;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "M'rry Kissm's, ol' man, but don' waken me. What's use o' gettin' up?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The use? echoed Tom, proceeding rapidly with his toilet;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So 'v' I, murmured Ned,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Indeed. What are you going to do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sk-t."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sk-t? What's that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Skate--ol' man, let m' 'lone,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, Matty, exclaimed Tom, as he looked frowningly at the instrument,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have not seen it so low as that for years. It will freeze the Thames if it lasts long enough."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What are you thinking about?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "About the poor, answered Matty, as she went and seated herself at the breakfast-table."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "On such a terrible morning as this I feel so inexpressibly selfish in sitting down to an overflowing meal in the midst of such warmth and comfort, when I know that there are hundreds and thousands of men and women and children all round us who have neither fire nor food sufficient--little clothing, and no comfort. It is dreadful,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, Matty, it _is_ dreadful, he replied,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That may be all very true, Tom, returned Matty, with a dissatisfied and puzzled look,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have broached a very wide and profound subject, Matty, and it would probably take us a week to go into it exhaustively, but a few words may suffice to show you that your remedy would not meet the case. Suppose that all the people in England were all at once smitten with your desire to retrench in order to have more to spare to the poor--and were to act upon their convictions; to determine that henceforth they would live on the plainest food, such as potatoes, mutton, and bread; what, I ask you, would become of the great army of confectioners? Would they not be thrown out of employment, and help, perhaps, to swell the ranks of the poor? If the rich ceased to buy pictures, what would become of painters? If they gave up books, (horrible to think of!) what would be the consequences to authors, and what the result to themselves? If carriages and horses were not kept, what would become of coachmen and grooms and ostlers--to say nothing of coach-makers, saddlers, harness-makers, and their innumerable dependants? No--living plainly or simply is not what is wanted, but living reasonably--according to one's means. Then, as to your having, as you say, much more than you need-- that does not injure the poor, for nothing of it is wasted. Does not part of the surplus go to Mary and James and the other servants, and much of what they do not consume goes in charity, directly, to the poor themselves?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, but, returned Matty, with the distressed and puzzled look still unabated,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course it does not, little woman, but it relieves my mind, and it ought to relieve yours, as to the selfishness of enjoying a good breakfast."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, surely, resumed Matty, with a slightly indignant look and tone,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How you fly to extremes, sister! said Tom, with a laugh, as he neatly cut the top off a fourth egg."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I combat your erroneous views, and straightway you charge me, by implication, with having no views at all! A remedy there surely is, but the wisest among us are not agreed as to _what_ it is--chiefly, I think, because the remedy is not simple but extremely complex. It cannot be stated in a few words. It consists in the wise and prompt application of multiform means--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Brother, interrupted Matty with a smile,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "By no means, Matty. I hope that nothing will ever turn you from your quest after the best method of helping the poor. But my words are not meant to be vague. By multiform means I would indicate legislation in numerous channels, and social effort in all its ramifications, besides the correction of many erroneous modes of thought--such, for instance, as the putting of the less before the greater--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tom, again interrupted Matty,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it is about time to go and put on my things."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not so, sister dear, said Tom impressively;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I intend that you shall hear me out. I think that you put the less before the greater when you talk of `giving' to the poor instead of `considering' the poor. The greater, you know, includes the less. Consideration includes judicious giving, and the teaching of Scripture is, not to give to, but to _consider_, the poor. Now you may be off and get ready--as quickly as you can, too, for it would never do to keep the poor waiting breakfast!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have my skates been sharpened?"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Capital! Ice will be splendid. Snow won't matter. Lots of men to sweep it. Looks as if the wind would fall, and there's a little bit of blue sky. Even if it doesn't clear, the pond is well sheltered. I do like a sharp, stinging, frosty day. Makes one's blood career so pleasantly!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hallo old girl--steady, exclaimed Ned, holding her up with an effort."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You carry too much sail to venture abroad in such weather."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Which it were my only one! gasped the old woman, holding out her umbrella that had been reversed and obviously shattered beyond repair. Then, looking up at Ned,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You'd better leave a-go of me, young man. What will the neighbours think of us?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ned went smilingly on his way, receiving in reply,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "La, now, who'd 'a' thought it!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jolly! ain't it?"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Prime!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "or"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hardly like to leave you, gran'father, in such blustery weather,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't say that, Martha,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You _must_ go, darling, resumed the old man after a few seconds' pause to recover breath."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You've no chance of a breakfast otherwise. And-- perhaps--they may give you a bit to bring home for--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, yes, gran'father. They'll be sure to let me bring home some for you. I'll be quite, _quite_ sure to do it."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lock the door and put the key in your pocket, said the old man, while the child tucked in about him the thin torn counterpane which formed the only covering to his straw bed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An' don't fear for me, darling. The Lord is with me. Be sure to eat as much as you can."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She had, indeed, heard of such a thing before, but had not up to that time met with anything of the kind, so she advanced to"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, my dear, _dear_ little girl! cried the shocked lady, with a gush of self-reproach and sympathy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm _so_ sorry--so _very, very_ sorry. It was so stupid of me! Have I hurt you much, _dear_ little girl? Come--come with me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bring her to the stove, Matty, there's more room there to have it looked to,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're _sure_ it is better, dear little child?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, ma'am, thank you. I don't feel it at all now. An' it's _so_ nice to feel warm again!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Warm --"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Again!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'll go for to kick it over, if you don't mind,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You mind your own business--Imperence! replied Martha, sharply. It must be remembered that she was a child of the"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wot a cheeky little shrimp it is,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, dear child, she said, in surprise,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, ma'am. But I've--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've eaten it,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And what has become of the rest, dear?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Please, miss, she've putt it in 'er pocket, said"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Imperence"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Tell me, dear child, she said, stooping low and putting a gentle hand on Martha's shoulder,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh yes, answered the little one quickly;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so 'ungry. You can't think 'ow 'ungry; but I promised to--to--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stay, don't tell me anything more about it, dear, till you have breakfasted. Here, eat _this_ before you say another word."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you speak to that girl again you shall have--_no more_."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never mind, little one, said Tom Westlake, coming forward at the moment, for he had just closed the meeting;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll find a bag for you to put it in. I hope the toe is all right."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh yes, sir, thank you, it's quite well,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Tell me now, little one, continued Tom, sitting down on the bench and drawing the child gently towards him,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh dear, no, sir; it's for gran'father."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Indeed. Is grandfather very poor?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh yes, sir, very, _very_ poor; an' he's got nobody but me to take care of him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If that be so, who is taking care of him just now? asked Matty, who had joined her brother, leaving another"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody's takin' care on 'im, ma'am, replied Martha, somewhat shyly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I locked 'im in, an' he's takin' care of hisself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Would you like to give grandfather anything in particular, little woman, if a fairy were to offer to give it you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, wouldn't I just?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes? What would you ask for?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd ask for a mug of hot soup, an' a blanket, an' some coals, and--oh! I forgot, a teapot, for ours is cracked an' won't 'old in now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you live far from this hall?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, sir, quite close."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come, Matty, you and I will go with this little one and see grandfather. What is your name, child?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Martha Burns, sir."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Martha, give me your hand, and come along."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Darling, I'm glad you've come, said the old man, faintly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've been longing so for you. Give me your hand, dear. I'm so cold--so cold."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jesus sent you, I suppose?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, Jesus sent us,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're rather late,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not too late, I think,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope not, for I should be sorry to go in upon them at dinner-time."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It do come rather awkward, sir, 'avin' no entrance 'all, said David, as he made the door fast."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If we even 'ad a porch it would 'elp to keep the wind and snow hout, but I ain't complainin', sir. I've on'y too good reason to be thankful."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dear Miss Matilda, said the old nurse, dusting a wooden chair with her apron, and beaming all over with joy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, indeed, nurse,--thank you, said Miss Westlake, laughing as she sat down,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now it's no use to tell me that, Miss Matty, said Mrs Butts, with the memory of nursing days strong upon her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You was always such a dear, thoughtless child! Don't you remember that day when you waded in baby's bath, an' then said you wasn't wet a bit, only a _very_ little, an' you rather liked it? Indeed she did: you needn't laugh, Master Tom, I remember it as well as if it happened yesterday."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't in the least doubt you, Mrs Butts, said Tom,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was only laughing at my sister's idea of dryness. But you must not let us interrupt you in your cooking operations, else we will go away directly. Just go about it as if we were not here, for I have some business matters to talk over with your husband."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go away? echoed Mrs Butts;"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You seem to be getting on pretty comfortably now,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, sir, thank God I am. Ever since I was enabled to cry, `God be merciful to me a sinner,' things 'as gone well with me. An' the puttin' on o' the blue ribbon, sir, 'as done me a power o' good. You see, before that I was sorely tempted by comrades offerin' me a glass, and by my own wish to _'ave_ a glass, but when I mounted the blue I was let alone, though they chaffed me now an' then, an' I felt it was no use thinkin' about it, 'owever much I might wish for it. The missus, bless 'er 'art, sewed a bit o' blue on my night-shirt in fun, but d'ee know, sir, I do believe it's that 'as cured me o' dreamin' about it, as I used to do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm glad to hear that, Butts, said Tom, with a laugh."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, tell me; how long is it since you tasted strong drink?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Six months this very day, sir."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And are you satisfied that you are better without it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Better without it, sir, repeated Butts, with energy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm glad to hear it, Butts; very glad to hear it indeed, said Tom,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, I know by the smell that it is quite ready, so we will say good-bye at once, said Matilda, getting up with a smile, and drawing her warm cloak round her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Be sure to send your eldest girl to me to-morrow along with your husband."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And come early, Butts,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You may depend on me, sir."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand by to shut the door quickly after us, added Tom as he grasped the handle,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What say you to a turn on the ice, Matty?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Charming,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Ned, how have you enjoyed yourself to-day?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, splendidly! There was such a jolly party in Wharton's grounds-- most of them able to skate splendidly. The pond is so sheltered that the wind scarcely affected us, and a staff of sweepers cleared away the snow as fast as it fell. Afterwards, when it cleared up and the sun shone through the trees, it was absolutely magnificent. It's the jolliest day I've had on the ice for years, though I'm almost knocked up by it. Jovially fatigued, in fact. But where have you been?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We also have been skating,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Indeed! I thought you had intended to spend the day somewhere in the east-end attending some of those free breakfasts, and visiting the poor, or something of that sort--as if there were not enough of city missionaries, and sisters of mercy, or charity, or whatever you call them, to look after such things."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are right, Ned, said Tom,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ned, said he, at last,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, Tom, I do,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "may be rendered inexpressibly more"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "John, dear, said his mother to his father, one day not long after his birth,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so glad he is a boy. He might have been a girl, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, Molly; _he_ could never have been a girl!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, don't laugh at me, John, dear. You know what I mean. But what shall we call him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "John, of course, replied the farmer, with decision."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My father was called John, and _his_ father was called John, and also his grandfather, and so on back, I have no doubt, to the very beginning of time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, John, returned his wife, simply,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Molly, you're getting to be quite sharp, returned the farmer."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nevertheless this little man is to be John, like the rest of us."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never mind, Molly. Don't look so down-hearted, lass. If he only leaves a bit enough to see a corner of my chin and the half of my razor, that will do well enough."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go ahead, my boy. Make hay while the sun shines. If you carry on as you've begun, you'll make your mark _somewhere_ in this world."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Alas! remarked poor Mrs Matterby,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jack, said Mrs Matterby, on the Christmas morning which ushered in her boy's ninth birthday,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You always do, mammy, on my birthdays,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want you to go with a message to a poor woman,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is that all?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, that's all--or nearly all, replied his mother, with a twinkle in her eye, however, which kept her son from open rebellion."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I want you to carry this basket of good things, with my best love and Christmas good-wishes, to old Nell Grove."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oho! exclaimed Jack, brightening up at once,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm your man; here, give me the basket. But, mother, he added with a sudden look of perplexity,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "True, Jack; old Nell is not poor in one sense: she is rich in faith. She has got `contentment with godliness,' and many rich people have not got that. Nevertheless she has none too much of the necessaries of this life, and none at all of the luxuries, so that she is what people usually call poor."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's a puzzler, mammy--poor and rich both!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I daresay it is a puzzler, replied Mrs Matterby, with a laugh,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's as merry as a cricket to-day,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, as 'erry as a kiket,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's always 'erry, said Jack, giving the little girl a gentle pull of the nose by way of expressing good will."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A merry Christmas both! How are you? See here, what mother has sent to old Nell."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh! I _say_!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I expected it, dearie, said old Nell, extending her withered hand to the boy as he set the basket on the table."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Every Christmas morning, for years gone by, she has sent me the same, though I don't deserve it, and I've no claim on her but helplessness. But it's the first time she has sent it by you, Jack. Come, I'll tell ye a story."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, dearies, she said in conclusion, laying her hand on the basket,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I expected this gift this morning; but many a time does our Father in heaven send a blessin' when an' where we _don't_ expect it. Mind that--_mind ye that_."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Granny, (Jack always called her"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "like the rest),"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Amen!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ye don't know that, darlin', replied old Nell."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Lord leads us in ways that we know not, an' it may be His good pleasure to bring you here again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "N-no; I'm quite _sure_ I'll never see you again, returned the boy, giving way to the sobs which he could not restrain."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "M-mother says we will never come back again,--n-never, _never_ more--"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dear Jack, she said in a choking voice, as they hurried along the streets towards the wretched abode in the Tower Hamlets, to which they had been at length reduced,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mother, he said, with tearful eyes, as he clung closer to her side,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I would _kill_ Mr Block if I could!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hush, dear boy! You know that would be wrong and could do no good. It is sinful even to feel such a desire."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How can I help it, mother! returned Jack indignantly. Then he asked,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What are we going to do now, mother?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The last sixpence gone; the cupboard empty; nothing--nothing left to pawn--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mother, said Jack,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It only seems like it, darling, returned the widow hurriedly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We don't understand His ways. `Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him!'"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My boy, said a young surgeon, returning to the waiting room, and patting Jack's head,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, sir; father's dead."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well then your sister or aunt--I suppose there's some relative at home older than yourself?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, sir; none but mother an' me,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No relations of any kind at all in London?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "None, sir. We know nobody--at least not many, and they're all strangers."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A sad case, murmured the surgeon."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your mother is poor, I suppose?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But of course you have a home of some sort, somewhere?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, it's not far from here."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, them, you'd better go home just now, for you can't see your mother to-night. We dare not let her speak, but come back early to-morrow, and you shall hear about her--perhaps see her. Here, put that in your pocket."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And now! thought Jack, seating himself on his little bed and glancing at that of his mother, which stood empty in the opposite corner--"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You seem to be in a hurry, youngster, he said, dragging the boy back by the collar, and looking hurriedly round the room."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've come for the rent. Where's your mother?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I don't really believe you, said the man, with an angry frown;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, sir,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; I thought not. Well, I'll enlighten you. Your mother owes me three weeks' rent of this here room, and has got nothing to pay it with, as far as I knows, except these sticks o' furniture. Now, if your mother is really in hospital, I'll come back here and bundle you out, an' sell the furniture to pay my rent. I ain't a-goin' to be done out o' my money because your mother chooses to git run'd over."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mrs Matterby? repeated the porter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come in; I'll make inquiry."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My sweet little toolip, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, thank you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well now, look 'ere, my toolip, returned the arab in a confidential tone,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've took quite a fancy to you; you've got such a look, some'ow, of my poor old grandmother. Now, if you've no objection, I'd like to give you your breakfast. You're 'ungry, I suppose?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ain't it 'eavenly?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "murmured the arab, casting a look of admiration on his companion."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now I means to go into that there shop, he added, returning to the confidential tone,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, well, my boy, said the constable gently,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Several street arabs sought to make his acquaintance, but, with the memory of Bob Snobbins strong upon him, he declined their friendship. At last, wearied out and broken-hearted, he found a quiet corner under an archway, where he sat down and leaned his head against the wall, exclaiming,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm lost--lost!"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'd like a bun, I know,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "God bless you, ma'am--yes,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go in and buy one. Then, come and tell me all about you."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, Jack, let me ask you one question, she said;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, said the old lady,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She'll never hold together till the rockets come, said a young seaman stepping out from the crowd."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Here, let me have the line, and stand by to pay out."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't try it, lad, it'll be your death."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A man can only die once,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "God bless you, Natty Grove!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "he exclaimed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We had thought you dead years ago!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank God, I'm not only alive but hearty. Here comes the life-buoy. Your turn next. But one word before--old Nell; and--Nellie?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Both well, and living with your mother--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your mother is alive, Jack, and--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, then, get in. No time to lose."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here, captain, cried Nat Grove, leaping into the life-buoy,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, Jack, said that lady in a firm tone,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Excuse me, dearest mother, Miss Nellie Grove has not yet spoken at all."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Her not speaking proves her the wisest of us all,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, Jack, resumed the widow for the fiftieth time,"
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Most happily for me, continued Mrs Matterby,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nellie lost her situation at the time I speak of, owing to the death of her employer. Thus I had the chance of securing her at once. And now, here we have been together for some years, and I hope we may never part as long as we live. We had considerable difficulty in getting old Nell to quit the cottage and come here. Indeed, we should never have succeeded, I think, had it not been for Natty--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's true,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The dear old woman was too deaf to understand, and too obstinate to move: so one day I put the bed clothes over her head, gathered her and them up in my arms, and brought her up here bodily, very much as I carried _you_ ashore, Jack, in the life-buoy, without asking leave. And she has been content and happy ever since."
}
] |
21725
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Once more, in the hope of a joyful meeting, I wish you `a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.'"
}
] |
402751
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, if it is, he's got a sense of humor,"
}
] |
229171
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know, father."
}
] |
934020
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ay,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "but they're gone."
}
] |
309151
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, Jack, is the little bag yours?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a good thing to exercise the imagination, now and then. That's the way changes come"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a good thing to exercise the imagination, now and then. That's the way changes come"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Cut it out--cut out the steam calliope!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Billy! His sister Margaret's voice was anxious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you sure you'd better?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know but this is the best part of the party, mused John Fernald, looking from one to another of them, and then at his wife, as they sat together before the fireplace, on the evening of the arrival."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was all over so quick, last year, and you were all piling back to town, to your offices, in such a hurry, you boys. Now we can have a spell of quiet talk, before the fun begins. That suits us to a T --eh, Mother?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Speaking of Aunt Eliza, Mother, makes me think of the old church. She used to talk so much about liking to hear the bell ring, right up over her head, next door. _Does_ the bell ever ring, these days--or have cobwebs grown over the clapper?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a miserable shame, Nancy, but that church hasn't had a door open since a year ago last July, when the trouble burst out. We haven't had a service there since. Mother and I drive over to Estabrook when we feel like getting out--but that's not often, come winter-time. Being the only church building in this end of the township, it's pretty bad having it closed up. But there's the fuss. Folks can't agree what to do, and nobody dares get a preacher here and try to start things up, on their own responsibility. But we feel it--we sure do. I don't like to look at the old meeting-house, going by, I declare I don't. It looks lonesome to me. And there's where every one of you children grew up, too, sitting there in the old family pew, with your legs dangling. It's too bad--it's too bad!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's barbarous!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And all over nothing of any real consequence, sighed Mrs. Fernald, in her gentle way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We would have given up our ideas gladly, for the sake of harmony. But--there were so many who felt it necessary to fight to have their own way."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And feel that way still, I suppose? suggested Sam Burnett, cheerfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's a whole lot of that feeling-it-necessary-to-fight, in the world. I've experienced it myself, at times."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "People! --Let's open the church--ourselves--and have a Christmas Day service there!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And expect the rival factions to come flocking peaceably in, like lambs to the fold? I think I see them!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ignore the rival factions. Have a service for everybody. A real Christmas service, with holly, and ropes of greens, and a star, and music--and--a sermon,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The sermon, by all means, quoth Sam Burnett."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Preach at 'em, when once you've caught 'em. They'll enjoy that. We all do."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But it's really a beautiful idea, said Margaret, her young face catching the glow from Nan's."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see why it couldn't be carried out."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course you don't. Guy spoke decidedly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If people were all like you there wouldn't be any quarrels. But unfortunately they are not. And when I think of the Tomlinsons and the Frasers and the Hills and the Pollocks, all going in at the same door for a Christmas Day service under that roof--well---- he gave a soft, long whistle--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let it strain it. It's a good thing to exercise the imagination, now and then. That's the way changes come. I don't think the idea's such a bad one, myself."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who would conduct such a service?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You couldn't get anybody out to church on Christmas morning, broke in Mr. Fernald, chuckling."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Every mother's daughter of 'em will be basting her Christmas turkey."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then have it Christmas evening. Why not? The day isn't over. Nobody knows what to do Christmas evening--except go to dances--and there's never a dance in North Estabrook. Whom can we get to lead it? Well----"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Billy!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Billy! Whoop-ee! Guy threw back his head and roared with delight at the notion."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Reverend Billy, of St. Johns, coming up to North Estabrook to take charge of a Christmas-evening service! Why, Billy'll be dining in purple and fine linen at the home of one of his millionaire parishioners--the Edgecombs', most likely. I think they adore him most. _Billy!_ --Why don't you ask the Bishop himself?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course Billy would, cried Margaret."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know perfectly well he would, Guy, dear. He doesn't care a straw about millionaires' dinners--he'd rather have an evening with his newsboys' club, any time. He has his own service Christmas morning, of course, but in the evening--He could come up on the afternoon train--he'd love to. Why, Billy's a bachelor--he's nothing in the world to keep him. I'll telephone him, first thing in the morning."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Put a notice in the post office, advised Guy, comfortably crossing his legs and grinning at his father,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's captain, said he."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If she wants to play with the old meeting-house, play she shall--so long as she doesn't ask me to preach the sermon."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You old dear! murmured Nan, jumping up to stand behind his chair, her two pretty arms encircling his stout neck from the rear."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You _could_ preach a better sermon than lots of ministers, if you are only an upright old bank cashier."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doubtless, Nancy, doubtless, murmured Sam, pleasantly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But as it will take the wisdom of a Solomon, the tact of a Paul, and the eloquence of the Almighty Himself to preach a sermon on the present occasion that will divert the Tomlinsons and the Frasers, the Hills and the Pollocks from glaring at each other across the pews, I don't think I'll apply for the job. Let Billy Sewall tackle it. There's one thing about it--if they get to fighting in the aisles Billy'll leap down from the pulpit, roll up his sleeves, and pull the combatants apart. A virile religion is Billy's, and I rather think he's the man for the hour."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hi, there, Ol--why not get something doing with that hammer? Don't you see the edge of that pulpit stair-carpeting is all frazzled? The preacher'll catch his toes in it, and then where'll his ecclesiastical dignity be?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your motive is undoubtedly a good one, Mrs. Oliver conceded. She spoke to Nan, busy near her, and she gazed critically about the shabby old walls, now rapidly assuming a quite different aspect as the great ropes of laurel leaves swung into place under the direction of Sam Burnett. That young man now had Edson Fernald and Charles Wetmore--Carolyn's husband--to assist him, and he was making the most of his opportunity to order about two gentlemen who had shown considerable reluctance to remove their coats, but who were now--to his satisfaction--perspiring so freely that they had some time since reached the point of casting aside still other articles of apparel."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I shall be much surprised, Mrs. Oliver continued,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's Christmas, replied Nan. Her cheeks were the colour of the holly berries in the great wreaths she was arranging to place on either side of the wall behind the pulpit."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They can't quarrel at Christmas--not with Billy Sewall preaching peace on earth, good will to men, to them. --Jessica, please hand me that wire--and come and hold this wreath a minute, will you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody expects Marian to be on any side but the other one,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's that about Sewall? Oliver inquired."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hadn't heard of that. You don't mean to say Sewell's coming up for this service?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course he is. Margaret telephoned him this morning, and he said he'd never had a Christmas present equal to this one. He said it interested him a lot more than his morning service in town, and he'd be up, loaded. Isn't that fine of Billy?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That puts a different light on it."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do I understand that you mean to attempt music? Mrs. Oliver seemed grieved at the thought."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There are several good voices in the family, of course, but you haven't had time to practise any Christmas music together. You will have merely to sing hymns."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Fortunately, some of the old hymns are Christmas music, of the most exquisite sort,"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Cut it out--cut out the steam calliope!--unless you want a burlesque. That organ hasn't been tuned since the deluge--and they didn't get all the water out then."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I won't hit that key again, called Carolyn."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Listen, you people."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Listen! You can't help listening when a cat yowls on the back fence, retorted Guy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go it alone; Margaret, girl."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Cut it out--cut out the steam calliope!"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you believe, Sammy, questioned Nan, with her tired cheek against her husband's broad shoulder,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think I should be, returned Sam Burnett, falling in with his wife's mood,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not much else. Nan smiled contentedly. Then suddenly:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "O Sam--the presents aren't all tied up! We must hurry back. This is the first Christmas Eve I can remember when the rattling of tissue paper wasn't the chief sound on the air."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If this thing goes off all right, mused Burnett, as he examined the stoves once more, before putting out the lights,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There go pretty near every one of the Fernalds, down to the station. Land, but there's a lot of 'em, counting the children. I suppose they're going to meet Guy's wife's brother, that they've got up here to lead these Christmas doings to-night. Queer idea, it strikes me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "of her"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose they think, Miss Jane went on, with asperity,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't suppose, said the invalid sister rather timidly, from her couch,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, I don't, retorted Miss Jane, very positively."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I don't see how you can think it, Deborah. You know perfectly well it was Maria Hill that started the whole thing--and then talked about me as if I was the one. How that woman did talk--and talks yet! Don't get me thinking about it. It's Christmas Day, and I want to keep my mind off such disgraceful things as church quarrels--if the Fernald family'll let me. A pretty bold thing to do, I call it--open up that church on their own responsibility, and expect folks to come, and forget the past. --Debby, I wish you could see Oliver's wife, in those furs of hers. She holds her head as high as ever--but she's the only one of 'em that does it disagreeably--I'll say that for 'em, if they _are_ all city folks now. And of course she isn't a Fernald. --Here comes Nancy and her husband. That girl don't look a minute older'n when she was married, five years ago. My, but she's got a lot of style! I must say her skirts don't hang like any North Estabrook dressmaker can make 'em. They're walking--hurrying up to catch the rest. Sam Burnett's a good-looking man, but he's getting a little stout."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jane, said the invalid sister, wistfully,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wish I could go to-night."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I wish you could. That is--if I go. I haven't just made up my mind. I wonder if folks'll sit in their old pews. You know the Hills' is just in front of ours. But as to your going, Deborah, of course that's out of the question. I suppose I shall go. I shouldn't like to offend the Fernalds, and they do say Guy's wife's brother is worth hearing. There's to be music, too."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wish I could go, sighed poor Deborah, under her breath."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To be able to go--and to wonder whether you will! --_O Lord_-- she closed her patient eyes and whispered it--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The problem is-- said the Reverend William Sewall, standing at the back of the church with his sister Margaret, and Guy Fernald, her husband, and Nan and Sam Burnett--the four who had, as yet, no children, and so could best take time, on Christmas afternoon, to make the final arrangements for the evening--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I should say, observed his brother-in-law, Guy, his face full of affection and esteem for the very admirable figure of a young man who stood before him,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Somehow this strikes me as the bigger one, said he."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The wisest of my old professors used to say that the further you got into the country the less it mattered about your clothes but the more about your sermon. I've been wondering, all the way up, if I knew enough to preach that sermon. Isn't there any minister in town, not even a visiting one?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not a one. You can't get out of it, Billy Sewall, if you have got an attack of stage-fright--which we don't believe."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There _is_ one minister, Nan admitted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I'd forgotten all about him, till Father mentioned him last night. But he doesn't really count at all. He's old--very old--and infirm."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Superannuated, they call it, added Sam Burnett."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Poor old chap. I've seen him--I met him at the post-office this morning. He has a peaceful face. He's a good man. He must have been a strong one--in his time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Had he anything to do with the church trouble?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Old 'Elder Blake'?--not except as he was on his knees, alone at home, praying for the fighters--both sides, was Guy's explanation."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So Father says, and nobody knows better what side people were on."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If I can get hold of a man whose part in the quarrel was praying for both sides, I'm off to find him, said Sewall, decidedly. He picked up his hat as he spoke."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell me where he lives, please."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Billy! His sister Margaret's voice was anxious."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you sure you'd better? Perhaps it would be kind to ask him to make a prayer. But you won't----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You won't ask him to preach the sermon, Billy Sewall--promise us that, cried Guy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An old man in his dotage!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You've got me up here, said he,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Keep cool, advised Sam Burnett."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He wants the old man's advice--that's all. I don't blame him. He wants to understand the situation thoroughly. Nothing like putting your head into a thing before you put your foot in. It saves complications. Sewall's head's level--trust him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Billy! His sister Margaret's voice was anxious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you sure you'd better?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't-- said a very old man with a peaceful face--now wearing a somewhat startled expression--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can't quite believe you are serious, Mr. Sewall. The people are all expecting you--they will come out to hear you. I have not preached for-- he hesitated--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If I were half as fit, answered Sewall, gently,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should be very proud. But I'm--why, I'm barely seasoned, yet. I'm liable to warp, if I'm exposed to the weather. But you--with all the benefit of your long experience--you're the sort of timber that needs to be built into this strange Christmas service. I hadn't thought much about it, Mr. Blake, till I was on my way here. I accepted the invitation too readily. But when I did begin to think, I felt the need of help. I believe you can give it. It's a critical situation. You know these people, root and branch. I may say the wrong thing. You will know how to say the right one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If I should consent, the other man said, after a silence during which, with bent white head, he studied the matter,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "he glanced at the clerical dress of his caller--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, Mr. Blake, said he."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It wouldn't be possible, and it wouldn't be--suitable. This is a community which would probably prefer any other service, and it should have its preference respected. A simple form, as nearly as possible like what it has been used to, will be best--don't you think so? I believe there is to be considerable music. I will read the Story of the Birth, and will try to make a prayer. The rest I will leave to you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And Him,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And Him, agreed the young man, reverently. Then a bright smile broke over his face, and he held out his hand."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm no end grateful to you, sir, he said, a certain attractive boyishness of manner suddenly coming uppermost and putting to flight the dignity which was at times a heavier weight than he could carry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No end. Don't you remember how it used to be, when you first went into the work, and tackled a job now and then that seemed too big for you? Then you caught sight of a pair of shoulders that looked to you broader than yours--the muscles developed by years of exercise--and you were pretty thankful to shift the load on to them? You didn't want to shirk--Heaven forbid!--but you just felt you didn't know enough to deal with the situation. Don't you remember?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You speak metaphorically, my dear lad, he said quaintly, with a kindly twinkle in his faded blue eyes. He laid his left hand on the firm young arm whose hand held his shrunken right."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I do remember--yes, yes--I remember plainly enough. And though it seems to me now as if the strength were all with the young and vigorous in body, it may be that I should be glad of the years that have brought me experience."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And tolerance,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And love, yet added the other."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Love. That's the great thing--that's the great thing. I do love this community--these dear people. They are good people at heart--only misled as to what is worth standing out for. I would see them at peace. Maybe I can speak to them. God knows--I will try."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Fernald family alone will fill the church, observed the bachelor son of the house, Ralph. He leaned out from his place at the tail of the procession to look ahead down the line, where the dark figures showed clearly against the snow. By either hand he held a child--his sister Carolyn's oldest, his brother Edson's youngest."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So it won't matter much if nobody else comes out. We're all here--'some in rags, and some in tags, and some in velvet gowns'."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can discern the velvet gowns, conceded Edson, from his place just in front, where his substantial figure supported his mother's frail one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But I fail to make out any rags. Take us by and large, we seem to put up rather a prosperous front. I never noticed it quite so decidedly as this year."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's nothing at all ostentatious about the girls' dressing, dear, said his mother's voice in his ear."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I noticed they all put on their simplest clothes for to-night--as they should."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes, Edson chuckled."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's precisely why they look so prosperous. That elegant simplicity--gad!--you should see the bills that come in for it. Jess isn't an extravagant dresser, as women go--not by a long shot--_but!_ He whistled a bar or two of ragtime."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can see myself now, as a lad, sitting on that fence over there-- he indicated a line of rails, half buried in snow, which outlined the borders of an old apple orchard--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A box of the cigars you smoke now, interjected Ralph unexpectedly, from behind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hullo--there's the church! Jolly, but the old building looks bright, doesn't it? I didn't know oil lamps could put up such an illumination. --And see the folks going in!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "See them coming--from all directions. Nan, farther down the line, clutched Sam Burnett's arm."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I knew they'd come out--I knew they would!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course they'll come out. This was Mrs. Oliver."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Locks and bars couldn't keep a country community at home, when there is anything going on. But as to the _feeling_--that is a different matter. --Oliver, do take my muff. I want to take off my veil. There will be no chance once I am inside the door. Nan is walking twice as fast now as when we started. She will have us all up the aisle before----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where's Billy Sewall bolting to?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He caught sight of Mr. Blake, across the road. They're going in together, Margaret replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think Mr. Blake is to have a part in the service."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Old Ebenezer Blake? You don't say! Father Fernald ejaculated in astonishment. He had not been told of Sewall's visit to the aged minister."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well--well--that is thoughtful of William Sewall. I don't suppose Elder Blake has taken part in a service in fifteen years--twenty, maybe. He used to be a great preacher, too, in his day. I used to listen to him, when I was a young man, and think he could put things in about as interesting a way as any preacher I ever heard. Good man, too, he was--and is. But nobody's thought of asking him to make a prayer in public since--I don't know when. --Well, well--look at the people going in! I guess we'd better be getting right along to our seats, or there won't be any left."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Holy Night"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "requested William Sewall, fervently. Then, forgetting even a likeness to prayer-book phrase, he added, with fists unconsciously tight-clenched, in the language of the athletic field where a few years back he himself had taken part in many a hard-fought battle--"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can't we end with 'Holy Night,' again? Nothing else seems to fit, after that."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Holy Night"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Silent Night! Holy night! Darkness flies, all is light! Shepherds hear the angels sing-- Hallelujah! hail the king! Jesus Christ is here!"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wasn't it great, Mr. Tomlinson? said Sam, enthusiastically."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Great--Mr. Fraser? He looked, smiling, into first one austere face and then the other. Then he gazed straight ahead of him, up at Elder Blake."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Going up to tell him so? So am I! He pressed the two arms, continuing in his friendly way to retain his hold on both."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In all the years I've gone to church, I've never heard preaching like that. It warmed up my heart till I thought it would burst--and it made me want to go to work."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You did well, Elder--you did well,"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are kind to come and tell me so, George, said he."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I had thought never to preach again. It did me good."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It did us good, sir, said Sam Burnett. He had waited an instant for Fraser to speak, but saw that the cold in the head was in the ascendancy again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It did me so much good that I can hardly wait till I get back to town to hunt up a man I know, and tell him I think he was in the right in a little disagreement we had a good while ago. I've always been positive he was wrong. I suppose the facts in the case haven't changed-- he smiled into the dim blue eyes--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, it's not worth while, agreed the old man quickly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's not worth while for any of us to be hard on one another, no matter what the facts. Life is pretty difficult, at its best--we can't afford to make it more difficult for any human soul. Go back to town and make it right with your friend, Mr. Burnett. I take it he was your friend, or you wouldn't think of him to-night."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Was--and is! declared Sam, with conviction."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's got to be, whether he wants to or not. But he'll want to--I know that well enough. We've been friends from boyhood--we'd just forgotten it, that's all."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "George, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess I made a mistake, thinking as I did."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Asey, responded Tomlinson quickly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess you weren't the only one that's made a mistake."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I presume you've got one somewhere, Maria, but you just can't lay your hand on it. Don't take the trouble to return it--it isn't of any value."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess I _will_ return it, Jane, if it's only so's to come to your house again--if you'll let me in, after all I've said."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Billy Sewall, have you taken your young friend home and put him to bed?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've taken him home, Sewall replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But there was no putting him to bed. I think he'll sit up till morning--too happy to sleep, the fine old man."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let him alone, said he."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He gets enough of prominent positions. If he wants to sit on the fence and kick his heels a while, let him. He's certainly earned the right to do as he pleases to-night. By George!--talk about magnificent team-work! If ever I saw a sacrifice play I saw it to-night."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You may have seen team-work, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What sort o' talk is that? he queried. Then he went on:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose you boys are giving the credit to Elder Blake--who ought to have it. But I give a good deal to William Sewall, whose eyes were sharp enough to see what we've been too blind to find out--that the old man was the one who could deal with us and make us see light on our quarrel. He did make us see it! Here I've been standing off, pluming myself on being too wise to mix up in the fuss, when I ought to have been doing my best to bring folks together. What a difference it does make, the way you see a thing!"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "After the preachers, I guess Nancy and Samuel deserve about the most credit, he went on."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was the little girl's idea, and Sam stood by her, right through. He began to chuckle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can see Sam now, towing those two old fellows up to the pulpit. I don't believe they'd ever have got there without him. There certainly is a time when a man's hand on your arm makes it a good deal easier to go where you know you ought to go."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It would have taken more than my hand to tow them away, said Sam Burnett,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The music helped, cried Nan,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I tacked the pulpit stair-carpet, put in Oliver, gravely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "While you're assigning credit, don't forget that."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I stoked those stoves, asserted Ralph."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That left-hand one--Christopher! --I never saw a stove like that to hand out smoke in your face. But the church was warm when I got through with 'em."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You all did wonderfully well,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All but me,"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I did nothing but discourage everybody, went on the voice, not quite evenly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I believe I'm apt to do that, though I never realized it before. But when that wonderful old man was speaking it came to me, quite suddenly, that the reason my husband's family don't like me better--is--because--it is my nature always to see the objections to a thing, and to discourage people about it, if I can. I--want to tell you all that--I'm going to try to help, not hinder, from now on."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bully for you!"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Marian's right in calling him a 'wonderful old man.' Guy spoke thoughtfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He got us all--Fernalds as well as Tomlinsons and Frasers. He hit me, square between the eyes, good and hard--but I'm glad he did,"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bless my soul! he cried."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's close on to twelve o'clock! You children ought to be in bed--oughtn't they, Mother?"
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose they ought, John, she responded, smiling at him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But you might let them sit up a little longer--just this once."
}
] |
19384
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said, leaning over to clasp her hand in his own, as she sat next him,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess maybe, just this once, it won't do any harm to let 'em stay up a little late, They're getting pretty big, now.... And it's Christmas Night."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Silent Night"
}
] |
12948
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Castle II. Creating a Panic III. Taking Possession IV. Scouting at Midnight V. A Startling Surprise VI. Guests at the Camp Fire VII. Faced by a Mystery VIII. As in the Days of Chivalry IX. With the Motion-Picture People X. The Assault on the"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Castle"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "CASTLE."
}
] |
12948
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Monkey"
}
] |
12948
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, the time limit you set has come, Alec,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, burst out Billy, eagerly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We've taken a leap in the dark, you see, added Arthur,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Me, too,"
}
] |
12948
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm ready to tell my little story, boys, he remarked."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't such a wonderful one, after all, but Hugh agreed with me that it might give some of us an excuse for coming up this way. And my aunt had supplied all the necessary funds covering our railroad fare from Oakvale to the little station where we jumped off the local train---Scarsdale."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Which aunt, Alec?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh! none of you ever met _this_ relative of mine, I guess, considered Alec."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aunt Susan is a very rich woman, and what you might call eccentric if you wanted to be particularly nice, and not use a harsher word. In fact, her nerves have gone back on her, and every little noise about sets her _wild_. She has taken a notion that the only salvation for her is to find some sort of a quiet country home in which her servants can glide around in felt slippers, with never a rooster's crow to disturb the dead silence."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Whew! you must mean she's a regular crank, Alec---excuse me for saying it!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, forget that part of it, resumed Alec, making a wry face."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Aunt Susan is peculiar, and immensely wealthy, so that money needn't stand in the way of her doing anything she fancies. In some way or other it seems she heard about a queer place away up here in the woods. It is known as Randall's Folly!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, seems to me I've heard something about that place! burst out Arthur Cameron, in a surprised tone."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Isn't it a modern castle built by a man years ago and meant to look like some British place in the days of Queen Elizabeth?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just what it is, Arthur,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let's see, pursued the other, uneasily,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Whew! and are we heading for that beautiful spot as fast as we can hike along?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My aunt wrote to my mother that she wanted some one to come up here and investigate, so she could have a full description before going any further into the deal for the property. Not that Aunt Susan bothered a bit about the ghost part of it, but she wanted to know whether the building was a ramshackle affair, or part-way decent. In fact, she asked for photographs of the place inside and out, and even requested that, if I could be induced to take the trip, along with some of those wonderfully bright chums of mine of whom she had been hearing such great stories, I was to buy the best camera that fifty dollars could command, and use the balance of the hundred for other expenses. So here we are close to Randall's Folly, with Saturday ahead of us for business, and meaning to go back home Sunday afternoon."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Which lovely programme must include two nights spent under the roof of a haunted house!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "For my part, spoke up Arthur Cameron,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Same here,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "As for me, the scout master remarked,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I considered it a fine chance for a little excitement. I, too, had heard some stories about this gloomy make-believe castle that had been built in the lonely woods by old Judge Randall when he married a young wife, and wanted to carry her away from the rest of the world. They say it's getting to be an interesting ruin by now, though perhaps Alec's aunt might choose to patch the crumbling walls up, if other things suited her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Huh! takes all sorts of freaks to make this world, grunted Billy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The idea of anybody actually wanting to bury themselves away up here, and never see a thing in the way of circus, baseball, winter hockey, Boy Scout rivalries and other good happenings. The old Judge must have been crazy."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, lots of people suspected it when he started to build this castle, said Alec, drily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They felt dead sure after it happened; for hold your breath now, fellows, because to be honest with you there was a terrible tragedy, and after the poor young wife was buried the judge lived as much as ten years in an asylum. He had become a maniac, you see, from jealousy of his beautiful wife."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suppose it's all right, since there are four other fellows along, Billy finally went on to say,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The walking is good down to the station, Billy, murmured Alec,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That'll be enough for you, Alec, continued the fat boy, with a certain amount of dignity."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You never knew me to show the white feather, and back down, once I put my shoulder to the wheel. If the rest can stand it I ought to be able to do so."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Good for you, Billy, cried Hugh."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Alec here ought to make you an apology. But since we've rested up, and there's still half a mile to tramp, with the afternoon wearing on, suppose we make a fresh start."
}
] |
12948
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look out for signs of a high wall on the left, boys, he finally told them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It may be almost hidden by vines and scrub trees by now, I was warned. It surrounds the whole place, though here and there it may be broken down. Few people after dark want to pass this place except in a hurry, and although it's only a mile and a half from the railroad, I don't believe tramps ever think of coming here. You see, most of them know the stories told about Randall's Folly, and they steer clear of the place."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think the wall you mentioned lies over yonder where all that wild tangle can be seen,"
}
] |
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