book_id
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| title
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stringclasses 1
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listlengths 1
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21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lovely day, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Quite charming. So fortunate for Mrs Darcy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Beautiful garden, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Charming! Such lovely roses!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Beautiful band, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, charming! Quite charming!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have returned home rather sooner than you intended, haven't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no, I kept to the exact date. I always do! What makes you think otherwise?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I--er--I thought I heard you were not expected for some time to come. You have been staying with friends?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, a number of friends! Quite a huge house party. I feel quite lost without them all."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you have your sister! he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have seen a good deal of your sister in her morning walks with Mr Sackville. She is a charming child, and most companionable; I am sure she will be a host in herself!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's very good of you! I can't tell you how pleased I am to hear you say so!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so pleased that you have formed such a good opinion of me, Mr Dudley! I was really afraid you had forgotten me altogether, for you seemed hardly to recognise me a few minutes ago."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm Babs--Una Sackville is my name--England is my nation, Branfield is my dwelling--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't joke, please. I want to understand. _You--are--Babs_! Have you been deliberately deceiving me, then? Pray, what has been your object in posing as a child all these weeks!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never posed at all--I never deceived you! Father treats me as a child, and you followed his example as a matter of course, and I was very pleased to be friends in a sensible manner without any nonsense. If I had said, `Please, I'm nineteen--I've left school, and am coming out--this is a hockey skirt, but I wear tails in the evening,' you would have been proper, and stiff, and have talked about the weather, and we should have had no fun. If anyone is to blame, it is you, for not seeing how really old I was!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So very old! he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nineteen, is it? And I put you down as-- fourteen or fifteen, at the most! And so Babs has disappeared. Exit Babs! I'm sorry. She was a nice child; I enjoyed meeting her very much. I think we should have been real good friends."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She has not disappeared at all. You will meet her to-morrow morning. There is nothing to prevent us being as good friends as ever,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think there is! There's a third person on the scene now who will make it difficult--for me, at least--to go back to the same footing. There's Una!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I owe a hundred apologies for my lack of ceremony to this fine, this very fine, this super-fine young lady! I'll turn over a new leaf for the future, and treat you with becoming ceremony. I can quite imagine the disgust of the budding _debutante_ at my cavalier ways. Confess now that your dignity was sorely wounded?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; I was never vexed but once. I like being treated sensibly, but that morning when you left me, and went out of your way with Rachel Greaves--I was sorry then that you did not know that I was grown up."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You thought if I had I would have walked with you instead? Why?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I didn't know then that you were old friends. I suppose you get to like her better when you know her well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Naturally. That is always the case with the best people."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And she is--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The best woman I have ever met, and the most selfless! he said solemnly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have you spoken to Rachel about me? What has she told you? I should like you to know the truth, though it is not yet general property. You can keep it to yourself for awhile?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are engaged to be married. It will probably be an engagement for years, for Rachel feels her present duty is at home, and I am content to wait her pleasure. I don't go up to the house very often, as the old gentleman is an invalid, and dislikes visitors, but we understand one another, and are too sensible to fret because we cannot always be together. Only when an opportunity occurs, as it did the other morning-- Why--you understand?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, I understand,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will told you! Will told you himself! she repeated, and stared at me in a puzzled, curious fashion, as if she wondered why on earth he should have chosen to make a confidante of me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is hardly a regular engagement, for father will not hear of my leaving home, and the waiting may be so long that I have told Will it is not fair to bind him. He says he is content to wait, but we agreed to speak about it as little as possible for some time to come."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, well, I'll keep the secret. You need not be afraid that I shall gossip about you,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hallo, Babs! Is that you transformed into a young lady in long dresses, and your hair done up? You dear, fat thing, how ridiculous you look!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I told you I had a smaller sister at home--here she is! Rather bigger than I expected, but not much changed in other respects. Don't be shy, Babs! Shake hands nicely, and be friends!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Allow me, Vere! If an introduction is made at all, it is best to make it properly. Captain Grantly, Mr Nash, Mr Carstairs, I have the honour of introducing you to my second daughter, Miss Una Sackville."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lady Mary,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aren't you well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have rather a headache, I began, without thinking of what I was saying, and then, (somehow I never can help telling him exactly how I feel), I stopped, and contradicted myself flat."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm perfectly well, but I think I'm jealous. I have been the only child for so long, and now my poor little nose is out of joint, and I don't like it a bit. It aches."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, she is very lovely! It must be a great responsibility to have a face as beautiful as hers, with all the influence over others that is its accompaniment!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who is that Mr Dudley?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Really, quite an acquisition! she drawled."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A vast improvement on the native one generally meets in these wilds. We must cultivate him, Babs! He makes our number even, so we can afford to spoil him a little bit, as it is a convenience to ourselves at the same time. It will be a godsend for him to meet some decent people."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As a matter of fact, he came to live in the country because he was sick of society and society people. He is not a country bumpkin, Vere, and won't be a bit grateful for your patronage. In fact, I don't believe he will come oftener than once or twice. When a man is engaged it's a bore to him to have to--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Engaged! she cried."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr Dudley! Who told you he was engaged? I don't believe a word of it. Some stupid local gossip! Who told you that nonsense?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He told me himself!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He did? My dear Babs, he was having a joke! No man would confide such a thing to a child like you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are mistaken there. He has told me heaps of things besides this, and I know the girl, and have spoken to her about it. You know her, too. Rachel Greaves, who lives at `The Clift'."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Rach-el Greaves! Oh! oh! cried Vere, and put her hands to her sides in peals of derisive laughter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, this is too killing! And you _believed_ it? You dear, sweet innocent! That man and--Rachel Greaves! My dear, have you seen her hair? Have you seen her hat? Could you really imagine for one moment that any man could be engaged to a creature like that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't imagine--I know! They have been engaged for years. It will be years more before they are married, for old Mr Greaves won't give his consent. And Rachel won't leave home without it; but Mr Dudley is quite willing to wait. He says she is the best woman in the world."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I daresay! She is frumpy enough for anything; and you call that an engagement? My dear, he will no more marry her than he'll marry the moon. It's just a stupid platonic friendship, and as he has not known anything else he thinks it is love. Imagine being in love with that solemn creature! Imagine making pretty speeches and listening to her correct copy-book replies! Wait! I should think she may wait! She'll have a surprise one of these days when he meets the right girl, and bids Rachel Greaves a fond farewell!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He'll do nothing of the sort, I said hotly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do hate you, Vere, when you sneer like that, and make out that everyone is worldly and horrible, like yourself! Will Dudley is a good man, and he wants a good woman for his wife--not a doll. He'd rather have Rachel's little finger than a dozen empty-headed fashion-plates like the girls you admire. But you don't understand. Your friends are all so different that you cannot understand an honest man when you meet him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can't I? What a pity! Don't get into a rage, dear, it's so unnecessary. I'm sorry I'm so obtuse; but at least I can learn. I'll make it my business to understand Mr Dudley thoroughly during the autumn. It will be quite an occupation, replied Vere, with her head in the air and her eyes glittering at me in a nasty, horrid, cold, calculating"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You-wait-and-see kind of way which made me ill! It was just like Tennyson's Lady Clara Vere de Vere, who"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm thankful I'm not a beauty!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because of the terrible temptations which you escape? Dear little innocent! Don't be too modest, however; you really have improved marvellously these past few months. If you could hear what the men said about you last night--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't want to hear, thank you,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Clift"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I always play a game with father in the evening, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He would miss it if I went out."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But he can't expect you never to go out! He would appreciate you all the more if you did leave him alone sometimes, I said, talking to myself as much as to her, for it was four days since I had been a walk with my father, and my horrid old conscience was beginning to prick."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do come, Rachel. I want you particularly, but she went on refusing, so then I thought I would try what jealousy would do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We shall be such a merry party; Vere is prettier and livelier than ever, and her friends are very amusing. Lady Mary is very handsome, and she sings and plays on the mandoline. She is going to take it with her to-night. It will be so pretty, the sound of singing on the water, and she will look so picturesque under the Japanese lamps."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wish I could come! It sounds charming. I've hardly ever been on the river, never in the evening; but I should be worrying about father all the time. He is old, you see, Una, and he has such bad pain, and his days seem so long. It must be so sad to be ill and know that you will never get any better, and to have nothing to look forward to. Her face lit up suddenly, and I knew she was thinking of the time, years ahead, when what she was looking forward to would come true."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I really could not neglect father for my own amusement."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But you have someone else to think of! I reminded her cunningly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I told you who was coming. You ought to think of his pleasure."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, he will enjoy it in any case! He loves being on the water; I am so glad you asked him!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That was kind of you! She would be pleased to be remembered, but this sort of thing is out of her line. She will be happier at home!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will come into my boat, of course, he said in his masterful way when we drew near the ferry; but I had seen Vere divide parties before now, and I knew very well I should not be allowed to go where I chose. It was as good as a play to see how she did it, seeming to ponder and consider, and change her mind half a dozen times, and to be so spontaneous and natural, when all the time her plans had been made from the very beginning. Finally, she and Will took possession of the first boat, with Lady Mary and Captain Grantly, who were always together, and were too much taken up with their own society to have eyes for anyone else. Miss Talbot, Mr Nash, Mr Carstairs and I went into the second boat--Miss Talbot furious because she felt it a slight to be put with a child like me--Mr Carstairs depressed as he generally was, poor man!--I with a heavy weight inside me, feeling all of a sudden as if I hated parties and everything about them, and dear little Mr Nash, happy and complacent, cracking jokes to which no one deigned to listen. Isn't it funny to think how miserable you can be when you are supposed to be enjoying yourself? I dare say if you only knew it, lots of people have aching hearts when you envy them for being so happy. The people on the banks looked longingly at us, but three out of the four in our boat were as cross and dissatisfied as they could be; and it made it worse to hear them enjoying themselves in the other boat; Vere's trills of laughter, and Lady Mary's gentlemanly"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ha, ha! ringing out in response to the murmur of the men's voices. When you are on land with the wrong people there is always the chance of a change, but you _do_ feel so"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now it's your turn, Miss Una! Your father is always talking of your singing, yet we never seem to hear you. Too bad, you know! You can't refuse to-night, when we are all doing our best to amuse each other. Now, then, what is it to be?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For goodness' sake, child, do your best, and don't make a fuss! Nobody expects you to be a professional!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Start ahead, and I'll vamp an accompaniment. It will be better than nothing, said Lady Mary kindly, and Will whispered low in my ear:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't be nervous. Do your best. Astonish them, Babs! And I did. That whisper inspired me somehow, and I sang"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Vale of Avoca,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bravo! Bravo! Lady Mary said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You little wretch! You do take the wind out of my sails. Fancy having to be bothered to sing with a voice like that! Gracious! I should never leave off! and Vere laughed, and said in her sweetest tones,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, for pity's sake, don't turn sentimental, Babs! It's so absurdly out of keeping! Stick to something lively and stirring--something from the comic operas! That would be far more in your line, don't you think so, Mr Dudley?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's a question of taste, he said lazily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Some people are fond of comic operas. Personally, I detest them; but I don't profess to be a judge. I only know what I like."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A sentimental ballad, for example?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Occasionally. Not always, by any means."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, better now? Got the better of the little temper?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know; partly, I suppose, but I do hate to be snubbed. I didn't want to sing. I did it to be polite; and it's horrid to think I made an idiot of myself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did I make an idiot of myself?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know you didn't."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you--did you think it was nice?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She was no longer a girl, she was a woman,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, dear, what is it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing. I'm coming with you!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, dear, but I'm going a long round. I won't be back until lunch. Better not leave your friends for so long."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Vere is with them, father. I want to come."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the matter? Not had a quarrel, have you? Has Vere been--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no, she hasn't! _Nothing_ is the matter, except that I want you, and nobody else. Oh, father, don't be so horribly kind! Scold me--call me a selfish wretch! I know I have neglected you, dear. There was always something to do, and I--forgot, but really and truly I remembered all the time. It isn't nonsense, father, it's true. Can you understand?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've been nineteen myself, Babs; I understand. Don't worry, darling. I missed you, but I was glad that you were happy, and I knew your heart was in the right place. We won't say anything more about it, but have a jolly walk and enjoy ourselves."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you have torn yourself away from your friends this morning, he said at last."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How is it that you were allowed to escape? What is the special campaign for killing time to-day, if one may ask?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You may ask, but it's rude to be sarcastic. You are often lazy yourself, though in a different fashion. You love to lie on your back on the grass and do nothing but browse and stare up at the sky. You have told me so many times."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, but what of my thoughts? Under a semblance of ease I am in reality working out the most abstruse problems. I did not mean to be sarcastic; I inquired in all seriousness how your valuable company could be spared."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For the best of all reasons--because nobody wanted it! Captain Grantly wants Lady Mary, Lady Mary wants Captain Grantly. Miss Talbot wants someone she can't get, but it doesn't happen to be me; the rest all want Vere, and have no thought for anyone else. Men always do want to be with Vere. Wherever she goes they fall in love with her and follow her about. She is so lovely, and she--she likes to be liked. Everyone says she is so charming and irresistible--they have told her so since she was a child--and she likes to prove that it was true. If--if anyone seems to like anyone else better it--sort of--worries her, and makes her feel neglected."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I see."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then, of course, she is extra specially nice, and seems to be more interested in him than anyone else."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pleasant for him!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is, for a time. But if he trusted to it and believed that she was really in earnest, he might get to care himself, and then, when he found out, he would be disappointed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Naturally so."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It has happened like that before, several times, and sometimes there are other people to be considered--I mean there might be another girl whom the man had liked before, and when he had given her up, and found that-that--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That he had given up the substance and grasped the shadow--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; then, of course, they would both be miserable, and it would be worse than ever."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Naturally it would be."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not be honest, Babs, and not beat about the bush? You think that my peace is threatened and want to warn me of it, isn't that it, now? You are my very good friend, and I am grateful for your interest. Did you think I was in danger?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sometimes--once or twice! Don't be angry. I know you would be true and loyal, but sometimes--I saw you watching her--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She is very lovely, Babs; the loveliest woman I have ever seen. There was some excuse for that."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know, I feel it myself, and it was just because I could understand a little that I spoke. I thought quite likely that you might be angry at first, but it was better that you should be that than wretched in the end."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Quite so; but I am not angry at all, only very grateful for your bravery in tackling a difficult subject. I have a pretty good opinion of myself, but I am only a man, and other men have imagined themselves secure and found out their mistake before now. Forewarned is forearmed. Thank you for the warning,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sleep well, little girl, you look tired. We can't let you lose your bonny colour,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How long I slept I cannot tell,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Fire!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The drawing-room! we heard father say."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The servants have been careless in putting out the lights, and something has smouldered and finally caught the curtains--that's the most probable explanation. If that is the case, I fear the back stairs will be impassable; they are even nearer than these."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The back staircase is impracticable, but if we keep our senses, there is no real danger to fear. I have rung the alarm bell, and the men will soon be round with ropes and ladders. The best thing you can do is to go back to your rooms, dress rapidly, and collect a few valuables which can be lowered from the window. You can have five minutes--no longer. I will ring a bell at the end of that time, and we will all meet in my room, which is the centre position, and therefore the farthest from the fire. Now, girls, quick! There is no time to lose!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ready, daughter? she said smiling, and then came up and took me into her arms."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Good girl! Brave girl! We must help the others, Una. You and I have no time to be afraid."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, mother darling!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you warm, Carina? Are you suitably dressed? You must have no train--nothing to make movement difficult. That's all right. Don't trust yourself to anyone but me, sweet-heart! I'll come to you in good time!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, Boy, yes! I'll come with you,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "had been so instilled into her from her earliest years that I honestly believe she imagined the very flames would hesitate to touch the Squire's"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We can't waste time like this! These men have lost their heads. Grantly, you and I are strongest. We must get down and break in the door. Come to the back of the house; there must surely be some way of dropping down on an out-house."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The blue room--over the larder. It's a deep drop, but safe enough for fellows like you. I'll show you!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you going to turn cowards and risk other lives besides your own? There is not a moment to lose. Every moment will make it more formidable. Mary, you are a brave girl! Will you lead the way?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not yet, dear, not yet. The girls first!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The girls wouldn't go before you. You can't stand this any longer. I am going to carry you down and come back for them. Come, sweetheart!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Vere, Vere!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't die, Babs--I can't! I've never thought of it. I'm frightened! Oh, Babs, Babs, think of something--think of a way--Save me! Save me!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll try, Vere, but you must help, you must be quiet! The heat is not so bad here, and if we get on the roof and call, someone may hear us. They will come to look if they find we have gone. Oh, we should never have left that room! Father trusted us to wait for him, but it is too late now... Look, here's a sheet: we must tear it into strips and make a rope. It will be easier that way."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You, Una! Here! Thank God! How is it possible? Which way did you come?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Out of a window--but, oh, don't talk--you must save Vere first! Round at the back--now--at once! I'll show you the way, but I can't walk, my foot is hurt--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There! Now think quietly for one moment, and tell me what we shall want! Where is she--high up? Shall I get some of these men to help."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's on an outhouse roof. I dropped down, but it hurt me, you see, and Vere daren't attempt it. A ladder would do, just one ladder. There's Mr Carstairs--he'll come! I'll tell him where to go."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Does it hurt so much, poor little girl?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's all over, darling! We have come to take you home. All your troubles are over now,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, cry, dear, it will do you good; but you mustn't stay here any longer. We have brought a chair, and are going to put you in it, and carry you home to the Grange. We are your nearest neighbours, so you must give us the pleasure of looking after you for a time. They are taking your sister on ahead, and a man has ridden off for a doctor. He will look after that poor foot of yours presently. I am afraid it will be painful for you to be moved, but we will be very careful. The servants are preparing rooms in case they are needed. You shall get straight to bed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And mother and father?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your mother was taken to the Lodge. She is well, but very exhausted. They want to keep her quiet to-night. Your father knows you are safe. He is very thankful, but he will not leave his post until the servants are safe. Now here is the chair, and here are Will and the coach-man waiting to carry you. Are you ready to be moved?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In danger--of death, do you mean? Certainly not, so far as I can tell."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Very weak and shaken, but nothing more than that, thank God! Good old Mrs Rogers is very happy helping Terese to nurse her. She sent you her love."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And, oh, father, the house, the dear old home? Is it quite ruined, or did you manage to put out the fire before it went too far? What happened after we left?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The lower rooms are more or less destroyed, but the second storey is little injured, except by smoke and, of course, water. The engines worked well, and we had more help than we could use. The people turned out nobly. The home itself can be saved, Babs; it will take months to repair, but it can be done, and we shall be thankful to keep the old roof above our heads."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But it will never look the same. The ivy that has been growing for hundreds of years will be dead, and all the beautiful creepers! I can't imagine `The Moat' with bare walls. And inside--oh, poor father, all your treasures gone! The silver and the china, and the cases of curios, and the old family portraits! You were so proud of them. Doesn't it break your heart to lose them all?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, he said quietly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I cannot think of such things to-day. I am too filled with thankfulness that out of all that big household not a life has been lost, and that my three darlings are with me still. Those things you speak of are precious in their way, but I have no room for regret for them in my heart when a still greater treasure is in danger, Vere--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, father, tell me about Vere! Tell me the truth. I am not a child, and I ought to know. How has she hurt herself?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Truthfully, dear, no one knows. She cannot move, and there is evidently some serious injury, but what it is cannot be decided until after an examination. They fear some spinal trouble."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It can't be so bad! It can't be really serious, I cried vehemently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was all over in such a second, and we were there at once; everything was done for her! Vere is easily upset, and she feels stiff and strained. I do myself, but she will be better soon, father--they must make her better! She could not bear to be ill."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Poor Vere, poor darling! I often wondered how her discipline would come. Pray God it may not be this way; but if it does come thus we must help her through it as bravely as may be. It will be hard for us as well as for her; terribly hard for your mother especially. We shall look to you, Babs, to cheer us up; you are young and lighthearted, and if our fears come true you will have a great work before you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "was often used when"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "would be much more applicable. I thought it horrid of her at the time, but I expect, like most hard things, it is true. Now if you didn't think of yourself at all but only and wholly of others, it would be your one aim through life to make them happy, and no effort would be too difficult if it succeeded in doing that. Then people would talk about you and say you were"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Rachel, please,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Moat,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "and wished to know if she had nothing fit to eat to offer to her guest. There were about ten different things on the table already; it was only rage which kept me from eating, but he chose to pretend that everything was bad, and we had a lively time of it, while he ate some of the cakes on every plate in turns and took a second helping and finished it to the last crumb, and then declared that it wasn't fit for human consumption. All the while poor Mrs Greaves sat like a mute at a funeral, hanging her head and never saying so much as"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Bo!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Try the toast, then, father dear. It is nice and crisp, just as you like it. If you don't like those cakes, we won't have them again. Ready for some more tea, dear? It is stronger now that it has stood a little while."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It might easily be that. Hot water bewitched--that's what I call your tea, young lady. Waste of good cream and sugar--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is not the tea that is bad, dear, it is your poor old foot. Cheer up! It will be better to-morrow. This new medicine is said to work wonders."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dear father, she said fondly;"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hope, my dear sir, hope is a more powerful medicine than people realise! Fifty guineas, please--thank you! Train leaves at two o'clock, I think you said?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "but he looked miserable, and every time he went to see her he looked still more wretched and _baffled_. There is no other word to express it. He seems impatient for me to see her, and when at last I could hobble to the door of her room, went with me and whispered urgently,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Try what you can make of her! Don't avoid the subject. It is better sometimes to speak out,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Una! So your foot is better, and you can get about? I was so sorry to hear it was bad. I suppose you are not able to get out yet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no! This is my longest walk. I am afraid of attempting the stairs. The Greaves are very kind. I believe they like having us here."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Having you, you mean. I am sure you must make a delightful break in the monotony. As for me, --she thrust out her hands with an expressive little grimace--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been rather a nuisance to everybody while these stupid doctors have been debating over the case. It's a comfort that they have made up their minds at last, and that I can be moved as soon as there is a place ready for me. Father is ordering a spinal carriage from London with the latest conveniences, like the suburban villas. I believe you lie on a mattress or something of the sort, which can be lifted and put down in the carriage. Such a saving of trouble! It is wonderful how cleverly they manage things nowadays."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are both cripples for the time being, but if I get strong before you do, I'll do everything I can to help you, dear, and make the time pass quickly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, thanks; but I love lazing. I am quite an adept in the art of doing nothing, and you will have quite enough on your hands. It's a capital thing for you, my being out of the running. You would never have taken your proper place unless you were really forced into it. Now you will have to be Miss Sackville, and you must keep up my reputation and do credit to your training."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall never take your place, Vere,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes. He writes to me frequently--sheets upon sheets. He has made up his mind to stay until he can see me again, and realise that I am still in the flesh, so he will have the pleasure of seeing me in my new chair. I must send him an invitation to join me on my first expedition. He really deserves some reward for his devotion."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I like Jim Carstairs, I said sturdily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope some day I may have someone to care for me as he does for you, Vere. It must be a lovely feeling. He has been in such distress about you, and on that night-- that awful night--I shall never forget his face--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, you have an inconvenient memory, Babs! It was always your failing. For my part I mean to forget all about it as soon as possible. You were very good and brave, by the way, and, I am afraid, hurt your foot in trying to save me. I would rather not return to the subject, so I will just thank you once and for all, and express my gratitude. You practically saved my life. Think of it! If it had not been for you I should not have had a chance of lying here now, or riding about in my fine new chair!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Vere, _don't_! don't sneer! I cried hotly, for the mask had slipped for a moment, and I had caught a glimpse of the bitter rebellion hidden beneath the smile."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is awful for you--we are all wretched about it; but there is hope still, and the doctor says you will get better if only you will give yourself a chance. Why do you pretend? why smile and make fun when all the time--oh, I know it, I know it quite well--your heart is breaking!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Would you prefer me to weep and wail? You have known me all your life; can you imagine me--Vere Sackville--lying about with red eyes and a swollen face, posing as an object of pity? Can you imagine me allowing myself to be pitied?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not pitied, perhaps--no one likes that; but if people love you, and sympathise--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Bah! She flicked her eyelids impatiently. I realised at that moment that she could not move her head, and it gave me a keener realisation of her state than I had had before."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bah! It is all the same. I want nothing from my friends now that they did not give me a month ago. If I have to be on my back instead of walking about, it is no affair of theirs. I neither ask nor desire their commiseration. The kindest thing they can do is to leave me alone."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can see you, Babs, and it's not becoming! We have no secrets to talk about, and would much rather have you with us, wouldn't we, Rachel?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course you are to stay, Una dear; don't say another word about it,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Vere is not one of the people who deceive themselves for good or bad. She is very shrewd and far-seeing, and, though she may not say anything about it, I know she has thought of every single little difficulty and trouble that will have to be faced. When it comes to the point, you will see that she has her own ideas and suggestions, which will be better than any others. She will order us about, and tell us what clothes to choose, how to lift her, and where to take her. And she will do it just as she is doing things now, as calmly and coolly as if she had been accustomed to it all her life."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Extraordinary! cried Will. He put down his cup and paced up and down the floor, frowning till his eyebrows met."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Marvellous composure! I should not have believed it possible. A lovely girl like that to have her life wrecked in a moment; to look forward to being a hopeless invalid for years--perhaps for ever. It is enough to unhinge the strongest brain, and she bears it without a murmur, you say; realises it all and still keeps calm? You women are wonderful creatures. You teach us many lessons in submission."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll tell you something, but you mustn't speak of it to Mr Carstairs, or father, or anybody; just think over it yourself, and try if you can help her. Rachel knows--she found out for herself, as I did. Vere is not brave nor submissive, nor anything that you think; it is only a pretence, for in reality she is broken-hearted. She won't allow herself to give in like other people, so she has determined to brave it out, and pretend that she doesn't care. She has always been admired and envied, and would hate it if people pitied her now, and I think there is another reason. She is angry! Angry that this should have happened to her, and that it should have happened just now when she was enjoying herself so much, and was so young and pretty. She feels that she has been ill- used, and it makes her cold and bitter. I've felt the same myself when things went wrong. It isn't right, of course: one ought to be sweet and submissive, but--can't you understand?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Will, quickly. He stopped in his pacings to and fro, and stood thinking it over with his head leant forward on his chest. His face looked so kind, and troubled, and sorry."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, yes, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I understand only too well. Poor girl, poor child! It's awfully sad, for it is going to make it all so much more difficult for her. She doesn't see it, of course, but what she is trying to do is to accept the burden and refuse the consolation which comes with it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I must say I fail to see much consolation in an injured spine,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ask Rachel, he said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If I broke my back I should die, Will. It is always fatal, I believe!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But if you were in Miss Sackville's place, how would you feel? How would you face the truth?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is only one way--to look to God for help and courage. Pride and anger can never carry her through the long days and nights that will be so hard to bear. They must fail her in the end, and leave her more helpless than before. The consolations are there, if she will open her eyes to see them, and afterwards--afterwards she will have learnt her lesson!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I told you she was the best woman in the world!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes, yes, but I am not, and Vere is my sister, and she was so pretty and gay. I can't be resigned for her! I can't bear to see her lying flat on her back; I can't bear to think of that awful chair. How can I talk to her of submission when I'm rebellious myself? I'm all hot, and sore, and miserable, and I want to know why, why, why? Why was our dear old home burnt when other houses are safe and sound? Why should we be crippled and made sad and gloomy just when we thought it was going to be so nice? All my school life I have looked forward to coming home, and now it's all spoiled! I'm not made like Rachel. I can't sit down and be quiet. It doesn't come natural to me to be resigned; I want to argue and understand the meaning of things. I have to fight it through every inch of the way."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I, too, Babs, he said sadly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm afraid I have kicked very hard against the pricks several times in my life. Every now and then--very rarely--one meets a sweet soul like Rachel who knows nothing of these struggles; they are born saints, and appear to rise superior to temptations, but most of us are continually fighting. There's this consolation, that the hour of victory can never be so sweet as when it comes after a struggle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And Vere--will she win too? I can think of no one but her just now. We used often to quarrel, and I've been jealous of her hundreds of times. I never knew I loved her so much till we were in danger, but now I'd give my life to save her, and help her through this terrible time!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you will do it, too. Vere will win her battle, but not with her own weapons, as Rachel says. Pride and anger won't carry her very far down the road she has to travel, poor child. It will be a gentler weapon."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You mean--?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I mean--love,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jane, because she is a plain, domestic-looking creature, and mother's, with the tortoiseshell and gold, is"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mirabella, and our cat is"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Davis, after a singing-mistress who squalled, and the new laundry-maid is"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Monkey-brand, because she can't wash clothes. It's silly, perhaps, but it _does_ help your spirits! When I go out on a wet day and say to my maid"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bring `Jane,' please,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Johnny Head in Air"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, darling,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Isn't it, darling?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you shall, darling,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stupid men! What are they afraid of? Tell them to come here at once."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "the flowers, and the books, and the letters, all"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's quite an age since I saw you; and now, I suppose, it is a case of `How do you do, and good-bye,' she said lightly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You must be longing to get away from this dull place, to pay some of your postponed visits."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They will have to be postponed a little longer. Dudley is good enough to say he can put me up another week or two, and I should like to see you settled at Bylands. There--there might be something I could do for you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Dearie me! Have you turned furniture remover? Are you proposing to pack me with the rest of our belongings?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am so thankful to see you out again, Miss Sackville, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's the first step forward in your convalescence, and I hope the others may follow quickly!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you as comfortable as possible? I think that light is rather dazzling to your eyes. Let me move you just a few inches."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am perfectly happy, thank you. Pray don't trouble. I prefer to stay where I am."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll move you back again if you don't like it, he said coolly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There! Now that branch screens you nicely. The sun has moved since you first came out, I expect. Confess, now, that is more comfortable!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, admirable but dullest of Rachels, she absolutely delights in doing what she dislikes! It was as good as a play to watch her face yesterday while she read aloud the reflections of the worldly Lady Peggy! They evidently gave her nerves a severe shock, but as for omitting a passage, as for even skipping an objectionable word, no! not if her life depended upon it. `It is my duty, and I will.' That is her motto in life. How boring people are who do their duty!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a pity she wasted her time, since you were only jeering at her for her pains. I don't know about enjoying what she hates, but she certainly loves trying to help other people, and I admire her for it. I wish to goodness I were like her!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes. I've noticed the imitation. It's amusing. All the more so that it is so poor a success. Your temper is not of the quality to be kept persistently in the background, my dear."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm sorry I was impatient! I wanted so badly to help you, dear. You must forgive me if I was cross."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Babs, _don't_!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't let me cry! Stop me! Oh, Babs, don't let me do it. If I once begin I can never stop!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But wouldn't it be a relief to you, darling? Everyone has been terrified lest you were putting too great a strain on yourself. If you gave way once to me--it doesn't matter for me--it might do you good. Cry, darling, if you want, and I'll cry with you!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, no, I daren't! I can't face it! Be cross with me--be neglectful--leave me to myself, but for pity's sake don't be so patient, Babs! It makes me silly, and I must keep up, whatever happens. Say something now to make me stop-- quickly!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I expect the men will be here any moment. You'll look hideous with red eyes,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Clift than the old home, and the two men come over often to see us. They had reconnoitred the grounds before we arrived, and knew just the nicest portions for Vere's chair for each part of the day, and Jim had noticed how she started at the sudden appearance of a newcomer, and had hit on a clever way of giving her warning of an approach. Lying quite flat as she does, with her face turned stiffly upwards, it had been impossible to see anyone till he was close at hand, but now he has suspended a slip of mirror from the branches of the favourite trees in such a position that they reflect the whole stretch of lawn. It is quite pretty to look up and see the figures moving about; the maids bringing out tea, or father playing with the dogs. Vere can even watch a game of tennis or croquet without turning her head. We were all delighted, and gushed with admiration at his ingenuity, and Vere said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, Jim,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Maud was sitting gazing out of the window at the unending stream of traffic."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This is our last talk! I told Dudley not to come, for there's so much to say."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It was her first visit to London, and to the innocent country mind--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't put me off, dear! I must speak to-day, or wait here till I do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Innocent country mind--innocent country mind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No matter if it does pain me. I will take the risk. I just wish you to know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Innocent country mind it seemed as if--"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't ask anything from you. You never encouraged me when you were well, and I won't take advantage of your weakness. I just want you to realise that I am yours, as absolutely and truly as though we were formally engaged. You are free as air to do in every respect as you will, but you cannot alter my position. I cannot alter it myself. The thing has grown beyond my control. You are my life; for weal or woe I must be faithful to you. I make only one claim--that when you need a friend you will send for me. When there is any service, however small, which I can render, you will let me do it. It isn't much to ask, is it, sweetheart?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dear old Jim, you are so good always! It's a very unfair arrangement, and it would be horribly selfish to agree. I'd like well enough to have you coming down; it would be a distraction, and help to pass the time. I expect we shall be terribly quiet here, and I have always been accustomed to having some man to fly round and wait upon me. There is no one I would like better than you--wait a moment--no one I would like better while I am ill! I can trust you, and you are so thoughtful and kind. But if I get well again? What then? It is best to be honest, isn't it, Jim? You used to bore me sometimes when I was well, and you might bore me again. It isn't fair!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is perfectly fair, for I am asking no promises. If I can be of the least use or comfort to you now, that is all I ask. I know I am a dull, heavy fellow. It isn't likely you could be bothered with me when you were well."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder, she said slowly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wonder what there is in me to attract you, Jim! You are not like other men. You would not care for appearances only, yet, apart from my face and figure--my poor figure of which I was so proud--there is nothing left which could really please you. I have been a vain, empty-headed girl all my life. I cared for myself more than anything on earth. I do now! You think I am brave and uncomplaining, but it is all a sham. I am too proud to whine, but in reality I am seething with bitterness and rebellion. I am longing to get well, not to lead a self-sacrificing life like Rachel Greaves, but to feel fit again, and wear pretty clothes, and dance, and flirt, and be admired--that's what I want most, Jim; that's _all_ I want!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Poor darling! he said huskily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Poor darling!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know--I know! I ought to feel differently! Sometimes in the night-- oh, the long, long nights, Jim!--the pain is so bad, and it seems as if light would never come, and I lie awake staring into the darkness, and a fear comes over me... I feel all alone in a new world that is strange and terrible, where the things I cared for most don't matter at all, and the things I neglected take up all the room. And I'm frightened, Jim! I'm frightened! I've lost my footing, and it's all blackness and confusion. Is it because I am so wicked that I am afraid to be alone with my thoughts? I was so well and strong before this. I slept so soundly that I never seemed to have time to think."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps that's the reason of it, sweetheart. You needed the time, and it has been given to you this way, and when you have found yourself the need will be over, and you will be well again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Found myself! she repeated musingly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is there a real self that I know nothing of hidden away somewhere? That must be the self you care for, Jim. Tell me! I want to know--what is there in me which made you care so much? You acknowledge that I am vain?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Y-es!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And selfish?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And a flirt?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And very cruel to you sometimes, Jim?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You didn't mean it, darling. It was only thoughtlessness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no! I did mean it! It was dreadful of me, but I liked to experiment and feel my power. You had better know the truth once for all; it will help you to forget all about such a wretched girl."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nothing can make me forget. You could tell me what you like about yourself, it would make no difference; I am past all that. You are the one woman in the world for me. At first it was your beauty which attracted me, but that stage was over long ago. It makes no difference to me now how you look. Nothing makes any difference. If you were never to leave that couch--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't say it! Don't suggest for a moment that it is possible! Oh, Jim, you don't believe it! You don't really think I could be like this all my life? I will be very good, and do all they say, and keep quiet and not excite myself. I will do anything--anything--but I must get better in the end! I could not bear a life like this!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The doctors all tell us you will recover in time, darling, but it's a terribly hard waiting. I wish I could bear the pain for you; but you will let me do what I can, won't you, Vere? I am a dull stick. No one knows it better than I do myself, but make use of me just now; let me fetch and carry for you; let me run down every few weeks to see you, and give you the news. It will bind you to nothing in the future. Whatever happens, I should be grateful to you all my life for giving me so much happiness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Dear old Jim! You are too good for me. How could I possibly say `No' to such a request?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I tried to read, I did, honestly, but I heard a good deal! It was your own fault. You wouldn't let me go away."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you know something you may not have known before--how a good man can love! I have treated Jim Carstairs like a dog, and this is how he behaves in return. I don't deserve such devotion."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody does. But I envy you, Vere. I envy you even now, with all your pain. It must be the best thing in the world to be loved like that."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sentimental child!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You looked fagged, mother dear. Do sit still and rest,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Babs, you are thin! Upon my word, child, I can see your cheek-bones. What have you been doing to yourself?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Circle now? It used to be my ambition to be described as a"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You goose! You look as if you had come into a fortune! I don't deny that it is an improvement, but you mustn't overdo it. It would be too hard luck for mother if we were both ill at the same time. All this anxiety has been too much for you. I had better turn nurse, and let you be patient for a little time, and I'll prescribe a little change and excitement. Firstly, a becoming new toilette for dinner to-night, in which you can do justice to your charms."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Una is so much thinner, I believe she could get into them now, Terese; and I have a fancy to dress her up to-night and see what we can make of her,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps, if I feel well enough, you might bring Mr Dudley up to see me for a few minutes after dinner. Terese will let you know how I am."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bant, and never allow myself to grow stout, and simply annihilate my husband if he dares to call me"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Fancy coming down to being a"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Babs!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Una!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your own Maggie."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is the matter, child? Have you had bad news? You look as if your heart was broken!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no--there's no news at all. I am tired, I think, and stupid, and wasn't thinking of what I was doing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You seemed to be thinking of something pretty deeply; and what business have you to be tired--a baby like you? I have been prescribing for her to-day, Mr Dudley. Have you noticed how thin she has grown? She hadn't discovered it herself until I told her, wonderful to relate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think she has thought of herself at all these last few months,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lorna Forbes. She writes every week. I haven't written to her for an age--nearly a month."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And she wants you to pay her a visit, and you think you ought not to go?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How in the world did you know?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your face was very eloquent. It was very easy to read, wasn't it, Miss Sackville?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I did not find it so transparent as you seem to have done; I suppose I am dense, Vere replied, with a laugh that sounded a little bit strained."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is it true, Babs? Has Mr Dudley read the signs correctly?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You hardly looked as if you didn't `care,'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You must go, Babs--of course you must go! It is the very thing you need. You have been a ministering angel to me, and I'm very grateful, but I don't want the responsibility of making you ill. Change and the beloved Lorna will soon bring back your roses, and it will be amusing to hear of your escapades when you return. Don't think of me! It is good for me to be quiet, and there are plenty of friends who will come in for an hour or two if I feel the need of society. You will take pity on me, won't you, Mr Dudley? You will come sometimes and have tea with mother and me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall be delighted,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are very eager to get away! Are you so tired of this neighbourhood and all the people it contains?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, so tired! so utterly, utterly tired!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That means another guinea, so we mustn't grumble!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nasty case--yes, nasty case! Poor woman, poor woman! Very little chance--little chance--Very good steak, my dear--an admirable dinner you have given me! Am-pu-ta-tion at eleven--mustn't forget the medicine. Three times a day. A little custard, if you please,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Midas,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because everything he touches turns to gold, or, to speak more correctly, copper! He has a genius for accumulating money, and has what we consider quite a vast sum deposited in the savings bank. My father expects him to develop into a great financier, and we hope he may pension off all his brothers and sister, to keep them from the workhouse. To do Midas justice, he is not mean in a good cause, and I believe he will do the straight thing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But how can he make money? He is only twelve. I don't see how it is to be done,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It began years ago--when he shed his front teeth. Mother used to offer us sixpence a tooth when they grew waggly, and we pulled them out without any fuss. We each earned sixpences in our turn, and all went well; but when Midas once began he was not content to stop, and worked away at sound, new double teeth, until he actually got out two in one afternoon. Then mother took alarm, and the pay was stopped. There was an interregnum after that, and what came next? Let me see--it must have been the sleeping sickness. Midas grew very rapidly, Miss Sackville, and it was very difficult to get him to bed at nights, so as the mater thought he was suffering from the want of sleep, she promised him threepence an hour for every hour he spent in bed before nine o'clock. After that he retired regularly every night at seven, and on half- holidays it's a solemn fact that he was in bed at four o'clock, issuing instructions as to the viands which were to be brought up for his refreshment! The mater stood it for a time, but the family finances wouldn't bear the strain, so she limited the hours and reduced the fee, and Midas returned to his old ways. What came after that, Lorna?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know--I forget! Of course there was Biggs--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, yes, Miss Biggs! Miss Biggs, you must know, Miss Sackville, is an ancient friend of the family, whom we consider it a duty to invite for a yearly visit. She is an admirable old soul, but very deaf, very slow, and incredibly boring. Her favourite occupation is to bring down sheaves of letters from other maiden ladies, and insist upon reading them aloud to the assembled family. `I have just had a letter from Louisa Gibbings; I am sure you will like to hear it,' she will say calmly, when the poor old parents are enjoying a quiet read after dinner, and we youngsters are in the middle of a game. None of us have the remotest idea who Louisa Gibbings may be, and don't want to know, but we are bound to listen to three sheets of uninteresting information as to how `My brother in China contemplates a visit home next year.' `My garden is looking charming, but the peas are very poor this season.' `You will be grieved to hear that our good Mary still suffers acutely from the old complaint,' etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. Last time she paid her visit when Midas had his Easter holidays, and one day, seeing mother quite exhausted by her efforts at entertainment, he made the brilliant proposal that he should take Miss Biggs off her hands for the sum of fourpence an hour. Mother agreed with enthusiasm, and Midas made quite a fortune in the next fortnight, with equal satisfaction to all concerned. In the morning he took Miss Biggs out walking to see the sights, and gave her his advice in the purchase of new caps. In the afternoon the wily young wretch cajoled her into giving him an hour's coaching in French, and in the evening he challenged her to draughts and dominoes, and made a point of allowing her to win. Mother had a chance of attending to her work; father could read in peace; Midas was in a condition of such complacent good nature that he declared Miss Biggs was a `ripping old girl,' and she on her part gave him the credit for being `the most gentlemanly youth she had ever encountered.' I believe she is really attached to him, and should not wonder if she remembers him substantially in her will. Then Midas will have scored a double triumph!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank goodness! I thought he would never go. What a bore he is!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now we must talk about you! You said in your last letter that you had many troubles of which you could not write. Poor, sweet thing, tell me about them! Begin at the beginning. What do you consider your very greatest trial?"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, she said, slowly, at last,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it is the drawing-room!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So, of course, the cushion had to come back too, and by the end of a week every single thing was taken out of the cupboard, and put in its former place! They _all_ had memories, and mother loved the memories, and cared nothing for the appearance. I was sweet about it. I wouldn't say so to anyone but you, Una, but I really was quite angelic, until one day when Amy Reeve came to call. She was staying with some friends a few miles off, and drove in to see me. You know how inquisitive Amy is, and how she stares, and takes in everything, and quizzes it afterwards? Well, my dear, she sat there, and her eyes simply roved round and round the whole time, until she must have known the furniture by heart. I suffered, sighed Lorna plaintively,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suffered _anguish_! I wouldn't have minded anyone else so much--but Amy!"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, she said,"
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Didn't you say this room was your own to do with as you liked?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; mother said I could have it for my den. Nobody uses it now; but, Una, it is hideous, too!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But it might be made pretty! It is small, and wouldn't take much furnishing. You could pick up a few odds and ends from other rooms that would not be missed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes, mother wouldn't mind that, and the green felting on the floor is quite nice and new; but the paint, and the paper-saffron roses--and gold skriggles--and a light oak door! How could you possibly make anything look artistic against such a background?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You couldn't, and it wouldn't be much fun if you could. I've thought of something far more exciting. Lorna, let us paper and paint it ourselves! Let us go to town to-morrow, and choose the very, very most artistic and up-to-date paper that can be bought, and buy some tins of enamel, and turn workmen every morning. Oh, do! I should love it; and you were saying only an hour ago that you did not know how to amuse me in the mornings. If we did the room together you would always associate me with it, and I should feel as if it were partly mine, and be able to imagine just where you were sitting. Oh, do, Lorna! It would be such ripping sport!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You angel! she cried at last."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You simple duck! How can you think of such lovely plans? Oh, Una, how have I lived without you all these months? Of course, I'll do it. I'd love to! I am never happier than when I am wrapped up in an apron with a brush in my hand. I've enamelled things before now, but never hung a paper. Do you really think we could?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course! If the British workman can do it, there can't be much skill required, and we with our trained intelligence will soon overcome any difficulty, I said grandiloquently."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All we want is a pot of paste, and a pair of big scissors, and a table to lay the strips of paper on. I've seen it done scores of times."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So have I, said Lorna."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And doesn't the paste smell! I expect, what with that and the enamel, we shall have no appetites left. It will spoil our complexions, too, very likely, and make us pale and sallow, but that doesn't matter."
}
] |
21129
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, indeed, madam!"
}
] |
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