book_id
stringlengths 2
6
| title
stringclasses 1
value | author
stringclasses 1
value | conversations
listlengths 1
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|---|---|---|---|
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear, he said coldly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know all about that, but do you think you need interrupt my argument to tell me? I shall be afraid to speak at all if I am going to be heckled!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wasn't 'heckling', she said, trying to speak lightly;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Taken thus, as a real document, the book has a persuasive charm. Pathetic little Zoë is a figure as real as her selfish husband, who emerges in some way as less great than has been actually stated. (Perhaps we were wrong in denying the book any subtlety.) We can foresee a long and lucrative discussion as to the Author's identity. For our part, we make a gift of the discovered clue 'Virginia,' and shall wait patiently until the publisher, as a good man and true, duly announces the authorship before issuing a cheap edition. Till that day we shall hope to live our lives in much the same round as before."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's only the first one, he said;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you really think the husband stands out as such a brute as all that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. I thought it exactly like Hubert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "he _had_ thwarted her. He would read it too, that or another, and suspect. Then he would get the book--and know. And he would think she meant it all, meant all the wild complaints of Zoë, Zoë whom at first she used to think of as"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose we can't possibly suppress the book?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Suppress it on the strength of the first notice? When it's been out two days? And when the notice says there can't be any doubt about its popularity? Suppress it, indeed! What about friend Blatchley?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you don't think, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear Zoë (he felt bound to soothe her and it was so thrilling to say),"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course I do, Ally; you're a splendid pal and I know you will never breathe a word. It means a lot to me you see;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look at this,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it? Another review?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, an advertisement. Awfully clever and suits our game too!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't see it suits us at all,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, it's putting people on the wrong track,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's making people want to know when they don't really care a bit,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, for Heaven's sake, Zoë, he cried at last (for he was getting almost husbandly in his remarks, encouraged by their common secret),"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't that, she answered with a gloomy petulance;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert? Why, I expect he would be jolly proud of you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Proud? she repeated bitterly;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, Alison, he said one day, when Geoffrey Alison had called in at his little office off the Strand,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh come, you know; don't say that,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do, though,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thanks"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I certainly do, he said more definitely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look at it this way. _The Confessions_ has been out eight weeks and we have sold just over thirty thousand copies. That is pretty good, I know, and I'm extremely grateful to you. But that is the past. Now look at the present. By careful advertising I've induced the public to be really interested in the question as to Zoë's real identity. That's not going to last, my son. Somebody will do a murder or find out a home cure for corpulence. In half a week the chatty columns of the Daily will be full of something else. Every one who wants to has read Zoë and decided who she is. Very well, then. Now, and here he raised a podgy but dramatic finger,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm very sorry if so, he said wearily,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "(He spoke more warmly now.)"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I always warned you that I couldn't tell you who had written it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bah! The publisher waved that aside with a smooth fat hand which left a trail of smoke."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's always so in the beginning, it's part of the game, but now it's in my interest, the book's, your friend's, your own as her adviser--I shall see you're mentioned as discoverer of the diary's great merits--in everybody's interest...."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm sorry, Blatchley, he said, as though bored with the whole affair,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course, of course, my dear fellow. I understand. The feeling does you credit. Don't imagine I'm ungrateful. Not at all."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh no, I don't,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look here, the publisher exclaimed, putting his cigar between protruding lips and drawing a note-book from a no less prominent waistcoat."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not dine with me one night to show there's no ill-will? I'm sure I owe you some commission! A little dinner somewhere gay, then the Empire or a supper--well, no details!--but what of something like that? Monday?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thanks very much, said Geoffrey Alison more warmly. This was the sort of evening he liked, when some one else would pay. Then, suspiciously, in the old tones;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So long as you'll swear not to worry me any more about Zoë."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear fellow, he said, patting him again upon the back in a most soothing way,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "(he waved the hand once more expressively around his little office),"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where shall we dine? business common to bad hosts, had instantly said;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shall we try the Ritz?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, said his host, as half the lights suddenly went out, obedient to a grandmaternal law of his adopted and free fatherland,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think we must toast the lady to whom we owe this very pleasant evening! He raised his glass, (they had worked back through brandy to champagne), and cried, mock-heroically:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To the unknown Zoë."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My word, yes, answered Geoffrey Alison with a fat laugh,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll drink that!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I dare say, my boy! he laughed cheerily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I dare say you will. I've my suspicions about you and Zoë."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no, warmly retorted the other. He was so genial as to be nearly truculent."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I won't let you say that. He was not quite so sure now about Blatchley."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's not right. She's a dam nice girl is Zoë, and she's as innocent as anybody makes 'em. I'm very fond of her, I tell you, and she's fond of me too. He pulled himself together in a very doggy way."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But that's all there is. I won't have you having suspicions. She doesn't know what all that means. I won't let you say that, Blatchley. She never thinks of anybody but her husband, damn him!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I see,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're a clever swine, Blatchley,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You thought I was tight! You thought I should give Zoë away. You want to know who she is, don't you? But not much! I'm less of an ass than you think, old man! Yes, that was it, he added in a sudden mood of contemplative depression;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Take more than that to make _you_ tight,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Give it up, Blatchley, old man, he said so happily as not to be offensive."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Give it up. You won't get anything from me. I'm less of an ass than you think. You won't get anything from me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope you don't mean to imply, Alison, he said in injured tones,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've stood you this evening just to pump your secret out of you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear fellow, my dear fellow,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It looks extremely like it, he said coldly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I look on your remarks as damned offensive. Here have I stood you a pleasant evening--at least I hope so--from gratitude, and you attribute it to the most disgusting motives."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear fellow, continued the other, who had listened to this with an open mouth suspended in the act of speech,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It came out with a rush, like one long syllable."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You misunderstand me entirely. We're gentlemen, both gentlemen. There isn't any question about anything like that. You utterly misunderstand me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It was rather hard, Alison, to understand what you said any other way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look here, Blatchley old man: it's like this, said the artist, embarked now upon self-defence."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're a good fellow, dam good fellow; very pleasant evening indeed; and I want to help you. But there's Zoë, you see; Zoë! He laughed happily; then, more gloomy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And there's Zoë's husband."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see, he said, friendly once more, to his guest,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, but he does, you know, he answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He does matter. Mind you, I dislike him. Dam conceited ass. But he does matter,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said very slowly, and there was only one more table-full for the head waiter to dislodge,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How headlines?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "he said, chuckling at his own journalistic readiness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, he does matter. Dam unpleasant for him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I suppose so, answered Thomas Blatchley with resignation."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, here's the chucker-out! He pointed facetiously towards the splendid person now close on them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must go."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A very pleasant evening, Blatchley old boy,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know, your books don't get one half the booming they deserve. You made a mistake in not coming to _me_! I'd make an offer now; I would have long ago, if it was only cricket. And even now, old man, if ever...."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Both for you, sir!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, a press cutting!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Splendid. How exciting!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's very late,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The last one is sometimes the best, isn't it?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is it, Hubert? she asked as he said nothing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope not a bad one?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is too scandalous, he cried, half choked and speaking like a pompous old man in his anger."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where will the newspapers ever stop?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What have they said now, dear? He missed the tragic resignation in that one word"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Read it,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Newer,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In this rather disappointing manner the Mystery of the Author's Wife leaves the select company of The Man in the Iron Mask, Jack the Ripper, Shakespeare, The Lady and the Tiger and other insolubles, to rank for ever with The Mango Tree, Fiona Macleod, The Englishwoman, and other mysteries which stupidly got solved."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Practically unknown, suddenly came to her ears;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's only a rag, not one of the real evening papers."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I shall write at once, he stormed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let's have the filthy thing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What will you say?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Say? he repeated scornfully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell them what they are and contradict the whole thing as a lie."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Listen. You--you mustn't."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mustn't?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert, she sobbed out,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My God! he cried, clutching her arms roughly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You _didn't_ write it? You didn't----"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said, trying to speak naturally,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hubert, she began again, as though in some way his name was a shield, and went to him,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the use? he said gloomily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's all so obvious. The gutter Press has let itself go over me for weeks as the mysterious, self-centred Husband; the man who sacrificed his wife! I don't see why you should explain. It only makes things worse."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you don't see, she answered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The husband wasn't you, any more than people in your novels. I wrote it--wrote it just for fun (he snorted with an irony that even she observed),"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, _he_ was in it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He promised never to tell any one, said Helena."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know, we wanted money so."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, we wanted money. Money's everything. So long as we have money, what does it matter everybody knowing you think me a selfish brute or that----?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have you _got_ the book? he asked with an icy calmness, presently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suppose as your husband I've the right to read it?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So this is it? he said with all Scorn in the words. He opened it at random."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "he read in slow, cold tones as to a child;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Anything sounds rubbish if you read it out,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't let's have any scenes, he said once more."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This has just happened. It's pretty ghastly; don't let's make it worse. You'd better go to bed when you feel tired; I shall just sit and read--I want to know the worst. Don't wait up for me. It'd be rather a mockery to wish each other good-night!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hugh,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We had better talk as usual in front of Lily, was all he said, coldly, before breakfast the next morning."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's no reason why she should guess that anything is different."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Must it be different?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you expect it to be just the same, when I know, everybody knows---- He broke off."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suppose _most_ married couples spend their time living up to their domestics. It's only we were lucky for a bit...."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No thanks, he said brutally."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't want to smoke. And I shan't work to-day of course."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I suppose so,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know then?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Tell me, he asked almost in a whisper,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, of course you think of yourself first! You're safe, though, here; trust him not to come near _me_!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said the other with an absurd dignity,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jealous? she retorted in bewilderment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, why should he be? Of what?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder, she said once again, for Man flies to a tag in moments of emotion,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wonder you dare come and see me. I trusted you with all my happiness--with everything; you swore you'd never fail me; and now---- She spread her arms in a pathetic gesture; then suddenly inadequate, a girl:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It really is too bad of you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, come I say, he started. He had arrived full of shame and dread, realising from his newspaper that he had been tricked into a betrayal; but now that her onslaught was so tame--merely"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "--he visibly regained his courage."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, he went on, almost aggrieved,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't call me that, she broke in fiercely."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Never call me that again. As though I didn't loathe the name and everything it stands for! You wouldn't understand. It's wrecked everything, spoilt my whole life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, come I say,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hate it, she said, working herself up;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, come I say, he said a third time, still standing close beside the door,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think that's fair. I only did it as a good turn to you. I thought it would be a new interest; you'd always so much time to spare; and then it might be useful too, the money----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I know, she interrupted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You meant well. People always do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he mildly summed up the whole case,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can't do more, can I, than say I'm very sorry."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, what _can_ I do then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go away, she blazed out, getting something like her chance;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "All right then, he said, recovering his dignity,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will go, he repeated at the door,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Helena, he said sternly, in a low voice that obviously considered Lily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it'll be better if we don't discuss this matter any further. We may possibly forget. Anyhow, it's no time for childish games. I'd already written, as you suggest to the newspapers. We won't speak of this at all in front of Lily."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not At Home"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope to get some reviewing work, he said at the end of the fourth ghastly lunch."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That will be something. I am off to town about it but shall be back to dinner."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doesn't it occur to you, she asked,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you blaming me, now?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What am I to do, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should send for your good friend Alison,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am forgiven then?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm afraid I was a pig, she answered, nobly. One feud was quite enough for her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know you never meant to do it and you were awfully good about it all till then. You helped me such a lot."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I hope to do the same again,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not give me away again?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know I shouldn't, you know I never meant to. And I'm afraid you'll never trust me any more."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's just what I'm going to do, she said, and then she could not refrain from laughing, for he looked so alarmed at new responsibility."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, nothing like the other, she went on gaily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it? he answered keenly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Helena, giving him his tea,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hooray! cried Geoffrey Alison, catching some of the great moment's fire."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Blatchley _will_ be bucked. He was immensely keen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bother Blatchley, answered Helena."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think he has behaved disgracefully and it is all his fault. But I can't stand this any longer; Hugh won't even speak to me; besides, if I write other books about quite different husbands, nobody can say they are all us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Excellent, said the other, grasping the involved idea at once,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So now I'm going to write one about a woman married to an artist, and you must give me all the local colour."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Shall _I_ be Zoë's husband?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh no, she said, unconsciously ruthless,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They paint,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm glad you've got back, she said in the usual tone."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I took your advice and asked Mr. Alison to tea."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is Mrs. Brett at home?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mr. Brett, did you say, sir?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; _Mrs._,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, it's you, Alison, he said, not holding out his hand; and then with an obvious sneer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "As busy as ever?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just like him, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hugh's such a worker, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He thinks of nothing but his writing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He certainly does not think much about his wife,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, what news have _you_ got?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Capital! he said, sitting down happily and pulling up his trousers to show light grey socks. Life was itself again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Couldn't be better. What do you think? Guess."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It might be anything at all, you see, she said with desolating common sense."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never guess; it's only wasting time; so tell me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, began Geoffrey Alison, a little crushed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I called along yesterday, after our talk, to tell Blatchley he had acted like a common cad."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see that's so very splendid, she objected."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You might have done it sooner, and anyhow he must have known that all the time. He only did it to get money, and he's getting it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You women _will_ interrupt, he said loftily. Yes, they were quite on their old terms again...."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you would only let me finish, I was going to tell you that he said he knew he had acted too hastily but that he hoped you would believe--and then he told a pack of lies, but here's the point. He spoke impressively."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you'll let him have the new book, he'll pay you two hundred pounds down, only as a first dab of the royalties of course, and boom it better than ever, and he guarantees a still greater success, providing it's one half as good. So there, Miss Zoë, what do you think of your agent now?"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall have to ask Hugh,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ask him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I ought to have asked him about the other, she merely replied."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then everything would have been quite all right."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, he assented, mocking;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She had no suspicion of his mental turmoil."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I'll let you know to-morrow about the new book, when I've asked Hugh."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, Helena, he said, coming into the drawing-room and actually sitting down, though not, of course, near her,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What exactly do you mean by that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What do _I_ mean? he snorted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Surely it's quite obvious! Most husbands would be jealous, but I'm not like that. I know it's mere stupidity; I couldn't be jealous of a knock-kneed ass like Alison; but all the same---- In spite of himself he relaxed his hold of the chair-arm and got up, pacing hurriedly about the little room."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, Helena, he said once again, more calmly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I see through it all; don't fancy not, for half a moment. You women are so obvious. I know you think you've only got to make us jealous for everything to be all right, but it's not going to work here."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know even what you mean,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, _I_ do, he thundered,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "(and here he made a gesture as of one who washes hands)."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's bad enough that you and he should be about together, day and night, till everybody talks; but when it comes to a cad like that calling you Zoë and----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you've been listening,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's likely, isn't it? I heard him bellowing it out in the hall.... No, this has got to stop. It's bad enough to have the Boyds and all our friends here sniggering, but when the servants----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps, she began icily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He spread his arms, hopeless, and sat down."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm glad you're not jealous, she went on slowly, as to a child."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That'd be stupid. You know quite well that Mr. Alison is nothing but a friend. I couldn't respect him as---- but no, she wouldn't seem to beg for mercy; she broke off and spoke again in a much fiercer tone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps though, as you've told me what I mustn't do, you'll tell me what I can. _You_ won't come out with me, you shun me like a criminal, you only talk to me in front of Lily. Do you think I can live like that? Do you really think I'm going out alone, alone with the dog, and everybody saying: 'There's poor Mrs. Brett; she's in disgrace; he's punishing her'? No, I'd rather let them see me with Mr. Alison and let them think it's I who am avoiding you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Helena, he said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Isn't it? she laughed. Then calming herself,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps then, she added, borrowing some of his irony,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What do most wives do, he asked,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Exactly what I wanted you to say, she cried."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't want to do anything again without your leave; but now I _will_ do some work. I'll live my own life, if you don't want me to share yours."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What do you mean, Helena?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I mean, she said surprised at her own calmness,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I utterly forbid it,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What? she exclaimed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Forbid? What do you forbid? How can you forbid? You could have, in the old days; I wouldn't have done anything if you had asked me not; but now--how can you forbid?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do, he cried excitedly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I utterly forbid it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you think, he said presently,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This one, she said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "she cried,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "in idle hours--a wife whom he had treated as a silly child...."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This one'll fail, he said almost fiercely,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We won't argue,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, by the way, he said, as to a servant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall want a room for Ruth to-morrow. She's coming down before teatime."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I accept, she cried excitedly, almost before he had got inside the door."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I accept Blatchley's offer. The book is growing splendidly. I've done two chapters and I see it all."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, she cried,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is he still sick?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sick, she laughed mirthlessly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is a lovely word for it! He seems to be entirely different. I knew directly it came out, I had done something awful, but I thought he would understand and see I hadn't meant him really and forgive. But he gets worse and worse. I think his friends keep teasing him, and then he can't get on with his book in the least. It's sickening."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I expect really he's jealous of your success. He's always sensitive. He hates anybody his own age succeeding better."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I don't think so, she said, not letting herself think, for all the puzzling little bits began to fit, now, with a deadly ease."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think it's that. He's naturally--'sick'!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so sorry,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, Ally,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "he repeated."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know that, Zoë, don't you? I'm your pal, whatever Hubert is."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert's splendid,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Zoë, he cried, surging forward,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My God!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh! she said at length, as though realising what the whole past had meant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought you liked me--and it was only this."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, come, he replied presently,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was _my_ fault, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I ought to have seen. People told me. I thought you just liked me, and I suppose I was flattered. If only I had guessed! But I was always such a fool. You see, I never really had a chance. _You_ taught me all I knew of art or anything. And that's why it's so terrible."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, come, you know, he was saying again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't go on as though there had been a tragedy! That's the worst of you awfully innocent women; you always think any one means so much worse than he does. Why you'd imagine I 'd suggested--well, almost anything; and all I wanted, just as my reward, was nothing but a kiss!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Grrrr! and then washed his hands when he spoke about Mr. Alison. He was"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Please go, she said, more voicing her thoughts than meaning to speak. Then having started, she explained."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't want to be nasty; you've always been so kind; but it will be much better if we don't meet again. Hubert had asked me, anyhow ... and then, you see, I couldn't ever feel the same, quite, with you. Oh, I'm so sorry, she said, noticing his look--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, I understand, he answered, very deep down, and serious for once without seeming comic;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've been a fool, a swine. He'd kick me if he knew--and he'd be right. But look here (he could not keep away from his excuses),"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then he caught her eye and said;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you're so different and that's why I feel such a cad. Good-bye."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Good-bye, she said and as he turned miserably away, she held her hand out to him,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wish to God, he said passionately,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd been more worthy of your friendship. It's been the best thing in my life so far,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ruth will be here at four o'clock. I want to see her before tea."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very well,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This I owe to you, he would say, throwing it across; or,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Finished?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Lily, she asked, trying to compromise between an obvious whisper and a voice too audible,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, mum,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You kept them, I hope?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh _yes_, mum,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Lily, and she hesitated, the coward of Conscience;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think I'll have them now and not to-night. Miss Brett will be here then."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert Brett, Esq."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now mark the sequel. Pretty little Mrs. Hubert, bored with her husband's neglect, indites a diary, which a keen-sighted publisher gives to the world. Hey presto! as dear old 'Bertie' Zoda used to say at the never-to-be-forgotten Pen-Pushers' Saturday nights (or were they Sunday mornings? Tush!), in a moment all is changed. She sells fifty copies to her husband's one; the book is in everybody's hands and mouth; the next is eagerly awaited--and poor Hubert finds himself, after all these years of manly efforts, as nothing more glorious than Zoë Brett's husband. Rough luck, Bertie, very!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is it? Is he ill? What has happened? Quick!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh no, he's all right, she said in confusion. How could she explain?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He wants to see you first. In there!"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But Ruth! he said, holding her by both arms,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, it's three years,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you look ten years younger! he cried, laughing. Just for a moment he forgot his troubles. It was incredible, this new Ruth with firm cheeks and bright colour; gayer even of costume. He could not understand--and he was little used to that."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know! he said; and then accusingly;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ruth, you're in love."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she replied,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think I've left all that too late."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it, then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's Norfolk, she said. Not for a million pounds would she have told him it was Freedom...."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Tell me, Hugh, she added quickly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Everything is utterly all wrong, answered Hubert, finding some consolation in a saying so tremendous;"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can't understand,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can't understand?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I haven't read the book, she said,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Anyhow, he answered sulkily, acknowledging defeat in that one word,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, assented Ruth,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I see that, quite. She has been very silly, but I'm sure she meant nothing and perhaps---- Then she stopped abruptly and repeated;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But she has certainly been silly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said decisively, as he got up,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can do nothing with her. She persists that she will bring another book out now, and so revive the whole unpleasant business! Tea will be ready and you must want it, but afterwards (he touched her lovingly upon the arm),"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know you'll want to help me, dear old girl. You'll go and talk to her quite firmly, won't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll go and talk to her, yes,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, it is five o'clock, I'll leave you two to a chat,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To make me a good girl,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm afraid, laughed Ruth,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, said Ruth, encouraged,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so glad you're taking it like this; I hated coming down. I know how people feel about in-laws and I thought you'd think I had come down to side with Hubert blindly. I've not, a bit. I'm very fond of him, but I see all his faults. I only want him to be happy. I'm forty, you know, and I've seen a good deal of things, so possibly---- She broke off and said, by an abrupt change;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You see, I lived with him for years and years so I can understand. He's difficult, I know, when you're with him, but when you get away--isn't he a dear?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's _more_ than that,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When I first lived with him, she began,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I met a lot of well-known writers, artists, actors. He used to go out more then, and it flattered him to meet men who were famous. Well, I came to the conclusion that the greatest men are the most tragic, the most pathetically childish. I suppose you _have_ to be self-centred to succeed; and then somehow, they can't get used to the little things. You know how press-notices upset poor Hubert? Well, they're all like that about something or other. You see, you married a man of that sort and you must make allowances."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I do, said Helena, leaping at self-defence."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I always did. It's _him_. He won't forgive me, won't believe I'm sorry, won't let me put things right. You don't know what this week has been. I can't endure it, really."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And so, asked Ruth,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What do you expect me to do, otherwise? He won't allow me to see other men, won't talk to me himself. A little house like this is nothing. What am I to do? It isn't even as though I'd a child."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hugh is just a child,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A child indeed? If you could have heard him this week! She suddenly grew hostile."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, she demanded passionately,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Helena, she said very gently, thrusting the name forward to make peace,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not going to ask you to give up your career; I'm asking you to spare Hugh his illusions."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't see,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, said the other, and then paused. Helena thought that she had finished, when she suddenly began again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've been alone a good deal these three years, and I have thought a lot about marriage. Oh, not for myself, no (she spoke so sadly that Helena relented for a moment);"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And yet, swiftly interrupted Helena in triumph,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't. She spoke decisively."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I only ask you not to sacrifice Hubert's to it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I still don't understand."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hubert married you, began Ruth expansively,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What are you asking me to do then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Leave him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Leave him? cried Helena, and by a natural dramatic instinct she rose from her chair."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Leave him when I'm fond of him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Leave him, she said again,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You cannot serve God and Mammon,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't break all his illusions, she heard Ruth saying, miles away."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Be gentle with him if you're fond of him. You know how sensitive he is. Your books, you say, sell better. How do you think he could ever endure that, he who--I tell you--is nothing but a child? It would be agony, a life-time agony; disgrace. He lives upon success, on admiration, on being the centre even of a little house. How could a man like that endure to be just Helena Brett's husband? ... Oh no, you won't do it, you can't be so brutal. No one can forbid you your career, but go away and work it out alone. _I_ will look after Hubert, if he needs me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So that's it, she said with a bitter laugh, longing to hurt somehow."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're thinking of yourself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "God knows, said Ruth solemnly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wouldn't come back willingly for half the world, fond as I am of Hugh. I've _lived_ since I got right away alone beside the sea. He always trampled on me; I lay down; I haven't got your courage. I often cried myself to sleep--and he not even guessing he had been unkind! It was hideous, I see now; hideous every day of it. But I'd go through it all again, and worse, sooner than expose him to this agony."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Leave him? she said dully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Surely there's some other way? Even if he didn't mind, think of---- You talk about agony, but how can you advise me to do this, when you know how his friends----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing would hurt him, said Ruth earnestly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "(she cried impatiently):"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Must I put it in words? He thinks that _he_ is a real author, you just nobody; that _he_ has studied, he has nerves and everything an artist has, but you are just a woman. He lives upon his self-conceit.... Oh yes, I've said it now; I had to. It's not disloyalty. I'm fond of Hubert too--everybody is, because he is so thorough in it, such a perfect child. And everybody spares him too. Men of his sort are never told; everybody pities them the shock. They smile on him and like to see him so contented. They call him 'dear old Hubert.' It's half pity, yes--but also it's half love. I've seen it all so clearly since I got away. I've sometimes told myself that if I had those years again, I should let him have the whole truth; but I know that I shouldn't. And _you_ won't either, Helena. Nobody ever does. They dream on happily, and all we others seem the selfish ones to them. It's all a comedy, when you're not near enough to see the tragedy. I've thought a lot about it, and I'm so glad now I was gentle. And _you_'ll be gentle too, I know. You'll either go away or you won't write: it's not for me to settle which; but you'll be gentle. You said just now you hadn't got a child. You have. No married woman is without a child. You won't be hard, I know, will you, because your child has been a little spoilt and things have suddenly gone wrong, and--just for a little bit--he loves to hurt his toys?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I--I never thought of it like that, said Helena, an odd look in her eyes."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought him so splendid and clever, so terribly above me. It all seemed so hopeless."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wish we had known each other sooner, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I must go and unpack."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I have found out about your own work too: it tries to be popular and isn't,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Hubert, she cried, running to him and putting her hand impulsively upon his shoulder, all forgotten save the instinct to console,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh yes, he said in a hard voice,"
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He's nothing but a child: be gentle."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hugh, she was saying, back on the words of a yet earlier rehearsal,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so sorry. I've been such a beast, and I _have_ wanted so to do the proper thing. I've been a beastly wife to you, and now I've come to say you're right. I can't finish the new book; I can't get on at all. She paused and said deliberately;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm just an amateur."
}
] |
33103
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Darling little girl, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Helena, he murmured, close beside her ear,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't say such awful things, Hugh,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd say them for ten years as penance if it did any good. But now you've told me, now I know you know, it's easier. When I get selfish, when I begin forgetting _your_ side of the thing, you'll have to tell me; see? And if you don't, well I've still got your copy of _The Confessions of_----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hugh, she cried, going to the table and taking up the paper which had changed their lives,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "--she tore the paper savagely across."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you must _not_ say you are selfish. It's only that your work----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My work! interrupted Hubert, with a discordant laugh."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've done none this last week. I've thought--thought about myself, and that's good when you're forty but it isn't pleasant. Do you know what is wrong with me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I took a long time finding myself out, he answered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's all. Everybody starts, about eighteen, thinking he's a genius and bound to end up on Olympus; then about twenty-five, we settle we're just common fools and take a city job. But I did not. I've gone on in what they call a fool's paradise; feeding upon praise and threatening those who did the other thing, until I really thought that I was some one great! Boyd always _said_ that I was undeveloped; there was something lacking.... But I've got it now. I think I got it when you cut me out as author!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't, please, she cried,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I must, he answered gloomily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've given half my life to writing--and only just found out that I can't write!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look here, dear, she said, taking his arm in quite a mother's way,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What? You and I collaborate?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she said quickly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shan't ever write again; that's done with; we'll just talk the stories over when we're out upon our dear old rambles, and then, you see, you'll get the woman's view as well. And possibly I may get plots sometimes, although I couldn't write them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then we'll sign Helena and Hubert Brett, he said in swift penitence, forcing himself to nobility."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That really does sound excellent!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she replied slowly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My God, Helena, he cried passionately,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's over now, she said:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you won't ever long to--well, to be Zoë again?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The dearest woman in the whole world,"
}
] |
915927
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not read the letter?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "THE HEART OF UNA SACKVILLE"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Croyez bien, ma cherie, que votre Maddie ne vous oubliera jamais."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We shall be so flat and dull without you, Circle! Myra said. She calls me"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Circle because I'm fat--not awfully, you know, but just a little bit, and she's so thin herself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think I'll turn over a new leaf and go in for work. I don't seem to have any heart for getting into scrapes by myself!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, we _have_ kept them going, haven't we! I said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you remember,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will say this for Una, said Florence,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know, dear, the gifts which God gives us are our equipments for that fight, and I feel sure your bright, happy disposition has been given to you to help you in some special needs of life."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't think vaguely of the poor all over the world; think of one person at your own gate, and brighten that life. I once heard a very good man say that the only way he could reconcile himself to the seeming injustice between the lots of the poor and the rich was by believing that each of the latter was deputed by God to look after his poorer brother, and was _responsible_ for his welfare. Find someone whom you can take to your heart as your poor sister in God's great family, and help her in every way you can. It will keep you from growing selfish and worldly. In your parents' position you will, of course, go a great deal into society and be admired and made much of, as a bright, pretty girl. It is only natural that you should enjoy the experience, but don't let it turn your head. Try to keep your frank, unaffected manners, and be honest in words and actions. Be especially careful not to be led away by greed of power and admiration. It is the best thing that can happen to any woman to win the love of a good, true man, but it is cruel to wreck his happiness to gratify a foolish vanity. I hope that none of my girls may be so forgetful of all that is true and womanly."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now then, Florence, go on--tell us Fraulein's love-story! and she would clear her throat, and cough, and say--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was a glorious summer afternoon in the little village of Eisenach, and the sunshine peering down through the leaves turned to gold the tresses of young Elsa Behrend as she sat knitting under the trees."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Back again, my girl, are you? A finished young lady, eh?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very glad of it, I can tell you. I'm getting old, and need someone to look after me a bit. He looked me up and down, with a sort of anxious look, as if he wanted to see if I were changed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We had good times together when you were a youngster and used to trot round with me every morning to see the dogs and the horses, but I suppose you won't care for that sort of thing now. It will be all dresses and running about from one excitement to another. You won't care for tramping about in thick boots with the old father!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't fish! You know very well I'll like it better than anything else. Of course, I shall like pretty dresses too, and as much fun as I can get, but I don't think I shall ever grow up properly, father--enough to walk instead of run, and smile sweetly instead of shrieking with laughter as we do at school. It will be a delightful way of letting off steam to go off with you for some long country rambles, and have some of our nice old talks."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How old are you, child?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nearly nineteen. I begged to stay on another half year, you know, because of the exam, but I failed again in that hateful arithmetic: I'm a perfect dunce over figures, father; I hope you don't mind. I can sing very well; my voice was better than any of the other girls, and that will give you more pleasure than if I could do all the sums in the world. They tried to teach me algebra, too. Such a joke; I once got an equation right. The teacher nearly had a fit. It was the most awful fluke."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't seem to care much about your arithmetical prowess, father said, smiling."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall not ask you to help me with my accounts, but it will be a pleasure to hear you sing, especially if you will indulge me with a ballad now and then which I can really enjoy. You are older than I thought; but keep as young as you can, child. I don't want to lose my little playfellow yet awhile. I've missed her very badly these last years."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nothing definite, darling, he said;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You silly old dear! As if I could ever forget!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My darling girl! How rejoiced I am to have you back. Sit down here and let me see you. How well you look, dear--not any thinner yet, I see! It will be delightful to have you at home for good, for Vere is away so much that I have felt quite bereft. Sit up, darling--don't stoop! It will be so interesting to have another girl to bring out! There are plenty of young people about here now, so you need not be dull, and I hope we shall be great companions. You were a sad little hoyden in the old days, but now that you have passed eighteen you will be glad to settle down, won't you, dear, and behave like the woman you are. Have you no little brooch, darling, to keep that collar straight at the neck? It is all adrift, and looks so untidy. Those little things are of such importance. I had such a charming letter from Miss Martin, full of nice speeches about you. She says you sing so sweetly. You must have some good lessons, for nothing is more taking than a young voice properly trained, and I hope you have no foolish nervousness about singing in public. You must get over it, if you have, for I rely on you to help me when we have visitors."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I want to help you, mother. I will truly try,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He will be so pleased to have you! It's nice of you, dear, to think of it, and after all it will be exercise, and there's not much going on in the morning."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is my youngest daughter. Come home from school to play with me, haven't you, Babs? and the strange man smiled and nodded, and said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How do, Babs? just as calmly and patronisingly as if I had been two. For a moment I was furious, until I remembered my hockey skirt and cloth cap, and hair done in a door-knocker, with no doubt ends flying about all round my face. I daresay I looked fourteen at the most, and he thought I was home for the holidays. I decided that it would be rather fun to foster the delusion, and behave just as I liked without thinking of what was proper all the time, and then some day he would find out his mistake, and feel properly abashed. His name is Will Dudley, and he is staying with Mr Lloyd, the agent for the property which adjoins father's, learning how to look after land, for some day he will inherit a big estate from an uncle, so he likes to get all the experience he can, and to talk to father, and go about with him whenever he has the chance, and father likes to have him--I could tell it by the way he looks and talks. We walked miles that morning, over gates and stiles, and across brooks without dreaming of waiting for the bridges, and I climbed and splashed with the best, and Mr Dudley twinkled his eyes at me, and said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well jumped, Babs!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose it's a great treat for you to getaway from school for a time. Where is your school? Town or country? Brighton--ugh! and he made a grimace of disgust."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shops--piers--hotels--an awful place! Not a bit of Nature left unspoiled; the very sea looks artificial and unlike itself in such unnatural surroundings!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Plenty of crocodiles on the bank, however--that's natural enough! I said pertly. I thought it was rather smart, too, but he smiled in a superior"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I-will-because-I-must,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How thankful you must be to get away from it all to this exquisite calm!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You do get very tired of the glare and the dust! Some of the girls wear smoked glasses in summer, and you get so sick of marching up and down the front. Do you hate Brighton only, or every towny place?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hate all towns, and can't understand how anyone can live in them who is not obliged. I have tried it for the last five years, but never again! He stretched his big shoulders, and drew a long breath of determination."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've said `Good-bye' for ever to a life of trammelled civilisation, with its so-called amusements and artificial manners, and hollow friendships, and --he put his hand to his flannel collar, and patted it with an air of blissful satisfaction--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I am just beginning it! And I expect to like it very much,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't understand--a child like you. It's a pity you ever should, but in a few years' time you will be so bound round with conventions that you will not dare to follow your own wishes, unless you make a bold stroke for liberty, as I have done, and free yourself once for all; but not many people have the courage to do that--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think it takes much courage to give up what one dislikes, and to do what one likes best,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pray, does that wise remark apply to me or to you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was a general statement. Of course, I can't judge of your actions, and, for myself, I can't tell as yet what I _do_ like. I must try both lives before I can decide."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, yes. You must run the gauntlet. Poor little Babs! he sighed; and after that we sat for quite an age without speaking a word. He was remembering his secret, no doubt, and I was thinking of myself and wondering if it was really true that I was going to have such a bad time. That reminded me of Miss Martin and her advice, and it came to me with a shock that I'd been home a whole month, and had been so taken up with my own affairs that I had had no time to think of my"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you know the people who live in these cottages, Mr Dudley? I knew the old tenants, of course, but these are new people, and I have not seen them. Are they old or young, and have they any children?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "John Williams--_puff_--wife--_puff_--one baby, guaranteed to make as much noise as five--it's a marvel it's quiet now--_puff_. You can generally hear it a mile off--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is it ill, then, the poor little thing?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Healthiest child in the world to judge from its appearance and the strength of its lungs! Natural depravity, nothing else"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And in the next house?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thompson--oldish man--widower. Maiden sister to keep the house in order--Thompson, too, I suspect by the look of him. Looks very sorry for himself, poor soul!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the matter with him--rheumatism? Is he quite crippled or able to get about?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thompson? Splendid workman--agile as a boy. It was his mental condition to which I referred!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And in the end house of all?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't know the name. Middle-aged couple, singularly uninteresting, and two big hulking sons--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are they _all_ well, every one of them? Are you quite sure? Are there no invalid daughters, or crippled children, nor people like that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not that I know of, thank goodness! You don't mean to say you _want_ them to be ill? He stared at me as if I were mad, and then suddenly his face changed, and he said softly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I see! You want to look after them! That's nice of you, and it would have been uncommonly nice for them, too; but, never fear, you will find plenty of people to help, if that's what you want. Their troubles may not take quite such an obvious form as crutches, but they are in just as much need of sympathy, nevertheless. In this immediate neighbourhood, for instance-- He paused for a moment, and I knew he was going to make fun by the twinkle in his eye and the solemn way he puffed out the smoke."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's-- myself!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I know! I guessed by what you said about town that you had had some disappointment. I'm dreadfully sorry, and if there's anything at all that I can do--"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you have been making up stories about me, eh? Am I a blighted creature? Am I hiding a broken heart beneath my Norfolk jacket? Has a lovely lady scorned me and left me in grief to pine--eh, Babs? I did not know you were harbouring such unkind thoughts of me. You can't accuse me of showing signs of melancholy this last week, I'm sure, and as to my remarks about town, they were founded on nothing more romantic than my rooted objection to smoke and dust, and bachelor diggings with careless landladies. I assure you I have no tragic secrets to disclose! I'm sorry, as I'm sure you would find me infinitely more interesting with a broken heart."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I'm exceedingly glad, of course; but if you are so happy and contented I don't see how you need my help,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Twist the ends of your veil, dear, they are sticking out... Oh dear, dear, she is at home! I do have such shocking bad fortune."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I should like to introduce my daughter to you,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you fond of flowers? and I remembered mother's rule and replied,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, I love them. That was four words, but it didn't seem to take us much further somehow, so I made a terrific effort and added,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But I don't know much about their names, do you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, I think I do. I feel as if it was a kind of courtesy we owe them for giving us so much pleasure. We take it as a slight if our own friends mispronounce or misspell our own names, and surely flowers deserve as much consideration from us,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How pretty!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, really!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you tell me your name? I ought to know it to add to my collection, for you are like a flower yourself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It must be a wild one, I'm afraid. I look hot-housey this afternoon, for I'm dressed up to pay calls, but really I have just left school, and feel as wild as I can be. You mustn't be shocked if you meet me in a short frock some morning tearing about the fields."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "May I come with you? Will you let me come too some day?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose you want to botanise?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No; I want to talk to you--I want to do just what you do when you are alone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Scramble through the hedges, and jump the streams, and swing on the gates, and go bird's-nesting in the hedges?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Y-es! At least, I could try--you could teach me. I've learned such a number of things in my life, but I don't know how to play. That part of my education has been neglected."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wherever did you go to school? What a dreadful place it must have been!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never went to school; I had governesses at home, and I have no brothers nor sisters; I am very much interested in girls of my own age, especially poor girls, and try to work among them, but I am not very successful. They are afraid of me, and I can't enter into their amusements; but if I could learn to romp and be lively, it might be different."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you mean to say you want to learn to be lively, as a lesson--that you are taking it up like wood-carving or poker-work--for the sake of your class and your influence there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, so far as I can judge of my own motives, that that is a truthful statement of the case! I have often wished I knew someone like you--full of life and spirit; but there are not many girls in this neighbourhood, and I met no one suitable until you came. It is a great deal to ask, but if you would spend a little time with me sometimes I should be infinitely grateful."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, don't be grateful, please, until you realise what you have to endure. Nothing worth having can be gained without suffering, I said solemnly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall lead you a terrible dance, and you must promise implicit obedience. I'm a terrible bully when I get the chance."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'll soon grow tired of her, darling; she is impossibly dull, but a good creature who can do you no harm. You can easily drop her if she bores you too much."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "One, two, three,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's the result of the first lesson! What do you think of the effect on your appearance?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I beg your pardon! I'm quite ashamed. What have I been doing?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Implicit obedience, remember! I like you better as you are. It's such pretty hair that it's a sin to hide it away in that tight little knot. Why shouldn't you look nice if you can?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It does not matter how we look, so long as our characters are beautiful!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then why was everything on the earth made so beautiful if we were not intended to be beautiful too? How would you like it if everything was just as useful, but looked ugly instead of pretty? When you have the choice of being one or the other it's very ungrateful to abuse your talent!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Beauty a talent! I have always looked upon it as a snare! How many a woman's life has been spoiled by a lovely face!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's the abuse of beauty, not the use! I said, and felt quite proud of myself, for it sounded so grand."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course, if you were silly and conceited, it would spoil everything; but if you were nice, you would have far more influence with people. I used to notice that with the pretty girls at school, and, of course, there's mother--everyone adores her, and feels repaid for any amount of trouble if she will just smile and look pleased."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, your mother! But there are not many like her. You spoke of having a choice, but in my own case, for instance, how could I--what could I do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You could look fifty thousand times nicer if you took the trouble. I thought so the first time I saw you, and now I know it. Look in the glass again; would you know yourself for the same girl?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's the enjoyment lesson, and the red cheeks--but oh, I couldn't--I really couldn't wear my hair like that! It looks so terribly as if I--I _wanted_ to look nice!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, so you do, don't you? I do, frightfully! I'd like to be perfectly lovely, and so charming that everyone adored me, and longed to be with me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, that's different, she said softly, and her eyes went shiny and she stared straight ahead at nothing, in the way people do who are thinking nice thoughts of their own which they don't mean you to know."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To be loved is beautiful, but that is different from admiration. We love people for their gifts of mind and heart, not for their appearance. She meandered on for quite a long time, but I really forget all she said, for I was getting tired of moralising, and wondering what excuse I could make to leave her and fly off home across the fields. Then suddenly came the sound of footsteps at the other side of the stile, and who should come jumping over just before our very faces but Will Dudley himself on his way home to lunch. He stared for a moment, hardly recognising the two hat-less, dishevelled mortals squatted on the grass, and then came forward to shake hands. The funny thing was that he came to me first, and said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How do you do?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What did you and Mr Dudley say about me the other morning?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "About you? The other morning? We--we never spoke of you at all!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We have a great many interests in common. When we lived in town we belonged to the same societies, and worked for the same charities. It is interesting to remember old days, and tell each other the latest news we have heard about the work and its progress."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you knew him before he came here? He is not a new friend?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no--we have known him for years. It was father who got him his present position."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you like him very much?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, she said quietly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Isn't it lovely to see the hedges covered with the wild roses? I think they are almost my favourite flower--so dainty and delicate."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nasty, prickly things--I hate them!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you know Miss Sackville? Allow me to introduce Mr Dudley, dear. Do take her to have some refreshment, like a good man. I am sure she has had nothing to eat!"
}
] |
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