book_id
stringlengths 2
6
| title
stringclasses 1
value | author
stringclasses 1
value | conversations
listlengths 1
5.07k
|
|---|---|---|---|
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon you'll have to go on without me, she said, her eyes filling with tears of vexation and disappointment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Professor Howe's on a regular rampage to-day. She's kept me all this time over an old composition on Emerson. She's made me loathe Emerson for all time. I shall perfectly hate him from this hour forth. Go on, don't wait! I won't spoil everything for the rest of you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nonsense, Annabel said, pushing Blue Bonnet into her room and taking out her clothes from the closet."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just hurry a little. The boys aren't here yet. It won't hurt them to wait a few minutes anyway. It's no killing matter. Wash in a little cold water; it'll freshen you."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thought you were going to wear your crepe de chine, Annabel. Sue said you were. Did you change your mind?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, Sue made such a fuss; said you girls were going to wear your suits. I suppose it is more sensible. Here are your gloves. Lucky they're clean! Got a handkerchief? Come on."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An awfully common name, Sue sniffed to Blue Bonnet at her first opportunity."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Never could abide the name of 'Ben.'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I don't know, Sue, Blue Bonnet replied,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This way, he said, leading them through the sitting-room to the bedroom beyond."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You'll want to take off your wraps."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They're doing it up brown, Sue whispered as Billy left the room."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They've engaged this maid along with the caterer. Just wait! I do hope they haven't forgotten that heavenly ice-cream like they had before. The kind with the nuts! Oh, girls; look! Isn't that perfectly killing?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, it's perfectly dear of him, anyway, Sue said, as the girls shook with laughter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course the bows _are_ funny, but the boys have done the best they knew how, and it's a pretty compliment, _I_ think."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why didn't you try a four-in-hand on this one, Billy? Sue asked, pointing to a carefully arranged effect of the"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "variety."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Or a--what you call it--an Ascot! An Ascot would be stunning on those orchids."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "See what you fellows escape by not having a sister,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Anyway, I didn't tie the bows, he added."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "McVickar did it. 'Fess up, old man. He's been at it all day--sluffed his classes to tie the bunch."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Really? she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, they're perfectly lovely--and the idea's so new. I've never seen it used before. I think you should be congratulated, Mr. McVickar. It's a gift to be able to originate!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pardon me, Billy said to Mrs. White on the way to open the door."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Surprising how many interruptions a fellow has in a place like this."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, a thousand pardons, Hemphill. Didn't dream you were entertaining. Just looking for a book--Calculus. Haven't seen it knocking about, have you? Fancied I left it here last night. No--No! Couldn't think of stopping. Oh, if you feel that way, old chap--"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Fear I'm intruding. Awful bore--fellows running in like this. Didn't dream Hemphill was entertaining. From Boston, I presume, Miss--beg pardon, didn't quite catch the name."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ashe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Ashe. Not the Ashes of Beacon Street? They're relatives of mine--distant, of course."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. I'm from Texas."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Texas! You're rather a long way from home, aren't you? Texas seems farther away to me than Paris. Great country that--Texas. Lots of cattle and Indians and--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know about Indians. We have cattle--lots! And cowboys. Maybe you're thinking of cowboys?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mighty pretty girl, blooming as a rose. Wonder how many of us the chaperon's going to stand for. Plague take it, why didn't Stuart give me a show--needn't have tread on my heels this way."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "First visit here?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes--that is, it's the first time I've been inside one of the buildings. I came to a ball game last autumn."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you must have a look round before you go."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have pleasant quarters here, she said, turning to Mr. McVickar."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you were at Oxford you would call this room the 'sitter' and that the 'bedder,'"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes--those are the Oxford terms. Know anybody there?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just one man. I've only met him. He's a friend of a friend of mine. He told me about some of the customs. They interested me very much."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd love to come in here when the men were dining,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's the joke?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'd have to come here at mealtime to find out, Billy informed her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see, we are a little averse to an audience, and the fellows act up considerably."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What do they do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Hammie McVickar explained,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think that's very rude,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wasn't it just like Billy to pick out the biggest bouquet for Mrs. White? Sue whispered to Annabel, as they were finally leaving the campus."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She adores American beauties, too. Don't you really think he's a dear?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's a diplomat, to say the least, Annabel replied, laughing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And a charming host, she added, to palliate Sue's evident disappointment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perfectly charming."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so glad you think so, Annabel, and--do you know--I've a feeling that he likes you awfully, dear. Not from anything he says--but--well, just the way he looks at you sometimes!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How absurd, Sue!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good! she cried, drawing Blue Bonnet down beside her while Annabel stirred the fire."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, we'll have a regular old-fashioned gossip."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My, but you're enterprising, Blue Bonnet said, as Annabel brushed diligently, counting each stroke."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I couldn't brush my hair that way every night if my life depended upon it. Don't you ever feel too tired to do it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, yes--sometimes; but it doesn't pay to neglect it. Wasn't it glorious over at the college to-day? Didn't you just adore it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Loved it! Blue Bonnet said rapturously, while Sue clasped her arms about her knees and gazed into the fire dreamily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think it was perfectly dear of Sue's brother to have us; and weren't those nice men who drifted in? Do you think any of them had really lost anything?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I told them that they ought to form a St. Anthony society. There's strength in union."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who's St. Anthony?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's the saint that some people pray to when they've lost things. He helps find them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Annabel--that's sacrilegious!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I didn't mean it to be. The boys didn't take it that way, I'm sure."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That Billings person was quite nice after all, wasn't he? Sue wakened from her dream long enough to remark."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I rather liked him. He's awfully devoted to Billy. It was quite touching the way he talked about him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see anything to laugh at. What's the matter with him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing. I think he's fine, Annabel answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And so clever! Just think of any one being discerning enough to find the way into Sue's good graces by the Billy route!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think I'll say good night, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have a Latin exam to-morrow and I've set my alarm for five-thirty."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't be silly, there's an old dear. I was only teasing--you know that. You're not going for an hour yet. Come to think of it, you'll not go at all; you'll sleep in Ruth's bed. We've loads to discuss, loads! We haven't mentioned Hammie McVickar or that Mr. what's his name--Stuart, wasn't it? or the refreshments. Come to think of it, Blue Bonnet's going to stay, too. We'll roll the couch over here by the fire and give her my down comfort--or my bed, if she prefers it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But I've simply got to get up early, Annabel, Sue insisted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't want to wake you and Blue Bonnet."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm rising with the dawn myself, thank you, my dear,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you won't be disturbing me in the least, Sue, Blue Bonnet said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I must get my clock, Annabel. If it should go off at daylight, and Wee found me missing, there'd be trouble."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All right, trot along, Sue; but come back instantly."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Annabel! Annabel! Sue! For goodness' sake, get up! It's seven-thirty this minute. I hear the girls now, going to breakfast. How am I ever to get into my own room for my clothes? Oh, I never should have stayed here last night--I knew that I shouldn't all the time."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't get so excited, Blue Bonnet. It's no killing matter to be late to breakfast. You'll only get a mark in the 'Doomsday Book;' and thank your lucky stars the girls _are_ going down to breakfast. When they're all gone you can slip out easily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes--but oh, my Emerson!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Emerson isn't a patching to a Latin exam!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And the two couldn't match up with a Physics test! Annabel groaned, putting on her clothes with eager haste."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have a vision of the mark I'll get!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Coast's clear, she announced."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shoo--both of you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sixes,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seems to me those leaves grow greener while you wait, Kitty Clark said, reining her horse beside a chuckling brook and pointing to a near-by birch grove."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I feel just like this water. I want to run as fast as I can, calling, 'Spring is here! Spring is here!' Don't you perfectly love this odor of growing things? Listen to that phœbe! Doesn't it sound as if he were saying, 'Spring's come! Spring's come!'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here they are!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, the darlings! Debby exclaimed, close behind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Girls! Let's gather as many as we can find, and send a box of them to Blue Bonnet. Remember how she raved over them last year? She said they were almost as lovely as the blue bonnets that bloom in Texas about this time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seems to me they're awfully early this year, Amanda said, searching under the mahogany colored leaves for the little furred heads."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never knew them to come before April."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, you forget from year to year, Amanda, Kitty reminded."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Anyway, it's almost April. A week from to-day is the first. That's the day Blue Bonnet gets here. And, by the way, I have a letter from Blue Bonnet. It came just as I was leaving the house and I waited until we were all together to read it. Suppose we go up on the hill a little farther and get in a patch of sunshine. It's a trifle chilly in the shade, even if Mr. Phœbe does keep insisting that 'Spring's come!'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Humph! Short and sweet, Kitty commented, as she drew forth the letter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Suppose it is because she will be with us so soon."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hoping to hear from you very soon, I am, ever with dearest love,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "BLUE BONNET."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "At the Copley Plaza! For three days! To visit Blue Bonnet!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Isn't it a blessing that our vacation begins on the first, too? Debby said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There ought not to be a thing to hinder our going."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing but--just one thing, Debby. It takes a lot of pretty clothes to stay in a place like the Copley Plaza. And those 'Lambs!' Blue Bonnet says they dress beautifully. Now, what have we got to wear in a crowd like that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If they're going to like us just for our clothes, Kitty! protested Amanda."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Besides, you have that new blue voile; you're a dream in it; and Sarah has her wine-colored henrietta. Maybe the rest of us could scrape up something; there's--let's see, four or five days yet."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Maybe we could get something in Boston, Debby suggested."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Blue Bonnet says they have wonderful bargains. You know she got all her clothes for school ready made, and they were as stylish as could be."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps we could; that's an idea, Debby, Kitty remarked thankfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's time for spring clothes anyway. We shouldn't want Blue Bonnet to be ashamed of us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Blue Bonnet wouldn't be ashamed of us--no matter what we wear. She's not that kind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But she'd like to be proud of us, nevertheless. Those 'Lambs' come from awfully rich families; they must, or they couldn't be in that school. It costs a small fortune to go there."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Blue Bonnet says they are not a bit airy, though, Kitty; and you hardly ever hear a word about money. Blue Bonnet says Miss North is a regular stickler for simplicity, and that she's forever telling the girls where to place values in this world."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where does she place them--these values? What are values anyway?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I believe I know, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's one of father's hobbies. It means getting a true estimate of life. We should value things that are worth while, like education and refinement, honesty and courage. It's very vulgar to put value on money; gentle birth and good breeding count for much more."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess our grandsires could measure up with anybody's, Amanda said proudly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're every one eligible to the Daughters of the Revolution."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the matter with the We Are Sevens?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who's all right? We're all right!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Only two days more until Uncle Cliff comes, now, Joy, she said, tearing a leaf off from the calendar."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Seems to me I just can't wait. I never was so anxious to see him in my life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It will be lovely, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you have planned so many things to do, Blue Bonnet. I've been wondering if your uncle will wish to keep all these engagements."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't know Uncle Cliff, she said gaily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He'll have the time of his life. He wrote me that three days were at my disposal; to fill them any way I chose. Want to hear the program?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Love to,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Uncle Cliff gets here the morning of the first; that's Friday."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Arrives at eight-fifteen. That ought to get him up here about nine, at the very latest."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, let the poor man get his breakfast first."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He'll have that on the train, thank you. Then let me see; yes--here: Nine o'clock, visit with Uncle Cliff. Ten, shopping. Eleven o'clock, hospital. I have a little plan about that. One, luncheon. Two o'clock, matinee--or something; haven't planned that yet. Five, meet Aunt Lucinda and the girls from Woodford. Eight, theatre--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mercy, Blue Bonnet, what a mad scramble! And after a five days' journey across the continent I should think your uncle would be dead!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hadn't thought of that, Blue Bonnet said, contritely."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps we _had_ better cut out the matinee. I shouldn't wonder if we had. It would be hard on Grandmother, too. But you have to do a lot, Joy! Three days slip away before you know it. Now that brings us up to Saturday, doesn't it? Saturday; let me see. Here it is! Saturday, A. M.: Nine o'clock, shopping. Have a little plan about that, too, if Uncle Cliff's willing; know he will be. One, lunch. Two, motor ride. Six o'clock, dinner for the Lambs and the We Are Sevens. You're in on that, too, Joy; you and Mrs. White. Eight, theatre. Sunday. Eleven o'clock, church at Trinity; hope the Bishop preaches. Two o'clock, visit with relatives. Seven, tea--at relatives, probably. Monday morning--Woodford. Sounds fascinating, doesn't it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Alluring, Blue Bonnet. I hope you'll have a happy time."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall, I'm sure, Joy. I've got to run up-stairs now a minute to talk things over with Carita. Carita goes with me to Woodford for the rest of the vacation."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Begins to look like a holiday, Blue Bonnet thought as she went through the halls and noticed the trunks at each door."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wonder if Carita is packing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the matter, Carita?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nothing? You look as if you had the blues."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No--only--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Only what?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Only what, dear?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon it's just a touch of homesickness. It's seeing the girls packing to go home. I want so to see mother--and Baby Joe. They says he's so darling now. Oh, my arms just ache to hold him sometimes, Blue Bonnet--and--and--Texas is so far away, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There! there! she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just think what a good time we're going to have with Uncle Cliff; and it's only a little while until the tenth of June. Why, the time will just fly after Easter, and--oh, my dear, be thankful that you have a mother to go to--suppose--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How selfish I am, she said, between sobs."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I didn't think, Blue Bonnet--really, I didn't."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course you didn't. And I didn't mean to remind you; it just slipped out. Sometimes it does, when I see girls crying for their mothers and I remember that I shall--never--have mine. Now, don't cry--please don't. Where's Mary?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She and Peg--Jerusha Austin are down in the office. Fraulein is after them again. Last night, when the trunks were brought up, Mary and Peggy waited until the lights were out and then they fixed up a tick-tack. They hid in the trunks and worked the thing for almost an hour. It was awfully spooky--nearly scared Fraulein to death. She's just furious at both of them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How did she find them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Mary got the giggles! Mary would laugh at her own funeral. Peggy was so cross at her. Fraulein traced the giggles to Mary's trunk."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What did you get this time, Mary?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You talk as if I'd been sentenced,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Weren't you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, not this time. Miss North was so disgusted she didn't do a thing. She made us feel as if we were infants; said she thought smothering in a trunk for an hour was punishment enough for anybody. She just talked!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And--_talked_!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She said that we'd so wrecked Fraulein's nerves--Peg and I--that Fraulein was leaving the school--wasn't coming back after Easter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Really? Is that true, Peggy?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That we've wrecked her nerves? Hardly. That's just letting her down easy. Miss North's dead tired of her, herself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who's going to take her place?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss North didn't take us into her confidence, Mary said flippantly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I shouldn't wonder if Joy Cross substituted until they get somebody. Joy's a whiz in German. She's had us two or three times lately when Fraulein was having one of her tantrums--beg pardon, nervous break-ups."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wait a minute, Blue Bonnet, Carita said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've some news for you. What do you think! Knight Judson's coming to Boston; my cousin, you know. He's coming with your Uncle Cliff. I've just had a letter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Knight Judson! What for?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's always wanted to come, and now he has the opportunity. He's been wild to study engineering, saved his money for it for a long time. Well--he had a chance to come on and do a little work at the Massachusetts Tech. It's awfully late in the year, of course, to enter, but he wants to look up a lot of things and be ready to start in the fall. I'm so anxious to see him. He'll have so much news from home."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And Sandy? Why didn't he come, too?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He will, next year."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It will be fine to see Knight again, Blue Bonnet said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Alec will be delighted to know he's coming. They were great friends in Texas."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, Knight is going to Washington first, then on to Woodford for a few days, with Alec."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How splendid! Oh, Carita, everything is going so beautifully that it almost makes me afraid. I feel as if the fairies had given me three wishes and they had all come true. I don't know whether I can walk down-stairs or not. I feel like taking a flying leap."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Take the banister, Mary suggested."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's safer, and heaps more fun. I tried it yesterday."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Fortunate you didn't run into any one,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I did! A nice lady who was trying to find Madam de Cartier. We fell--all in a heap!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Even the weather is on my side, Blue Bonnet said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I ought to be the very happiest girl in the world--and I am!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Terribly exciting, isn't it? Sue said, passing Blue Bonnet in the hall shortly after breakfast."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so glad Annabel and I are staying over until Monday. Has your uncle arrived yet?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm just watching for him. He should be here in about ten minutes. I'm keeping my eye on the front door--oh, Sue, there's a ring now; perhaps it's he! It is! It is!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Uncle Cliff! dear Uncle Cliff! she cried, rapturously, while she led him toward the reception-room, holding to his arm tightly as if by some chance he might escape."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How ever did you get up here so soon? It's only a quarter to nine, now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Taxi, Honey. And the train was on time, fortunately. Come over to the light and let me have a look at you. Why, child, how you have grown! And what's this--long dresses! Honey, Honey, where's Uncle Cliff's little girl?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here she is, she cried, snuggling into the warm embrace again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She'll never be anything but a little girl to you--never! That's proper length--just a speck below my shoe-tops. Will you sit here a minute while I find Carita? Poor Carita has been a little homesick the last few days. It's seeing the girls start for home, I reckon."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now the plans, Honey. What are they? Mr. Ashe said, looking at his watch."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Have you had breakfast?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Cliff! An hour ago."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, I haven't. Suppose you get your things together--both of you--and come over to the hotel with me right away. The taxi is waiting."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All ready?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just as soon as we say good-by to Miss North."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will come for you in twenty minutes, Mr. Ashe said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then we will go down to breakfast. I have a suspicion that you could eat another bite if you tried, while we talk over the plans. Suppose you have them all settled, Honey?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I have, Uncle Cliff. It's going to be very strenuous, too, I'm afraid. I hope you aren't awfully, _awfully_ tired."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think I shall be equal to the demand,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's this, Uncle Cliff, she said, when the door had closed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I want to talk something over with you before Aunt Lucinda comes. You see, I'm not quite sure she'd approve of it, and I want so much to do it. That is--I want to, if we can--without hurting anybody's feelings."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All right, Honey. What is it?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You see, it's this way, Uncle Cliff. There's that dinner for the Lambs and the We Are Sevens to-morrow night. Every single one of the Lambs ordered a new gown to wear. I didn't want them to--but they would do it--and--I'm afraid it's going to make the We Are Sevens sort of uncomfortable. So I was thinking, Uncle Cliff--I was _wishing_ that--we--you and I, maybe--could have a little shopping expedition to-morrow morning and--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You understand--don't you, Uncle Cliff? It isn't that I'd be ashamed of the girls; you know that. Their clothes are all right--only I know how girls feel not to be dressed quite like others. It makes them awkward and ill at ease, and--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I understand perfectly, Honey,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But just how could we do it, Uncle Cliff--get them some pretty things without making them think--that--that their things weren't right,--good enough, you know? It's an awfully delicate matter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "SHE WAS HOLDING ON TO UNCLE CLIFF'S COAT LAPELS."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So it is, Honey, but I think we can find a way. Was it some pretty frocks you wanted to give them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, if I only _could_, Uncle Cliff. Gowns and slippers to match, and I'd thought of some pretty evening wraps, too. You see, we're going to the theatre, and supper afterward, and the Lambs have such pretty ones. We could afford it, couldn't we? There's no one to spend money on but poor little me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think you need worry about the expense, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are very fortunate in that respect, Blue Bonnet, and you know I always approve of spending money where it means happiness. Do you need a new frock, too,--and Carita, perhaps?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We could each use one, Blue Bonnet answered,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This isn't Aunt Lucinda's affair, Mr. Ashe replied quickly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's mine, Honey. How would this do? We'll take the We Are Sevens shopping with us to-morrow morning and when you and Carita have selected your gowns I will suggest that the others select too--a little gift from me--or from you, if you think best."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The very thing, she cried."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then they can't think it was planned. They'll be so delighted. Oh, Uncle Cliff, you are so dear, _so dear_! The last dear was emphasized with a resounding kiss."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so happy; _so happy_ that it seems as if I couldn't stand it. Isn't this a beautiful old world? Now, we must hurry. I want to get you out to the hospital to see Gabriel the very first thing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not sure that I like the idea of you going about these hospitals, Honey--especially where patients are tubercular. You can contract these things, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How perfectly ridiculous! I'm as healthy as ever I can be. Why, look at me! I've put on eight pounds in three months. That's the very worst of boarding-school--- it's bound to make you fat. Poor Wee Watts is discouraged to death."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's not been so well the past week, Miss Warren, the nurse, said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think it is the confinement. It is beginning to tell upon him. He ought to be out in the country in the sunshine."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's the matter, Gabriel? she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This won't do. You promised me that you would get well."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will, the child maintained stoutly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There ain't nothing the matter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're twins,--me and her, Gabriel announced, directing his remarks to Mr. Ashe."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Our birthdays are the same."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So I understand."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you her father?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, and her uncle, too."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You see, I haven't any father--or mother either, Gabriel. My uncle has to be both,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's like me, too. I'm a orphant!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I lent the soldiers to another feller, Gabriel said presently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He's sicker than I am."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you shall have some more, Gabriel. It was fine of you to be so unselfish."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wasn't. They made me!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want my own--they can fight like--I didn't say it, did I? I told you I wouldn't never again, Miss Warren."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "These children have some street expressions that are hard to break, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gabriel is trying very hard to be a gentleman. He got so excited over the soldiers, Miss Ashe, that we had to take them away."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Gabriel began, pointing to Blue Bonnet,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes. Lots of them. Would you like to ride a pony, Gabriel?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Bet yer!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just how ill is this child? he asked, much moved."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is there any chance for his recovery?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes--yes, indeed, under the right conditions. He has tuberculosis of the knee. If only a home could be found for him in the country! He's an unusually bright child, and so lovable. I feel sure that he must come from excellent Jewish people, though he was brought here from the tenement district a few months ago--just after his mother died."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you think he'd have a chance in the country?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm very sure of it, sir."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come, Honey, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it's time we were going. We'll see Gabriel again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Blue Bonnet! Do you really truly mean it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Girls! she cried,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sarah! Amanda! Did you hear what Blue Bonnet said? We are each to choose a gown--a dinner gown and a party coat; gifts from Mr. Ashe. Did you ever hear of anything so splendid in your lives? Just fancy being able to _choose_ what one really wants, and not something that will 'do nicely!' A party coat, too, Blue Bonnet? You're sure you're not mistaken? Why, it will cost a fearful lot for six of us!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't think you need worry about that, Kitty Kat. Uncle Cliff isn't minding the price. Just choose something pretty and becoming. Carita and I are to select, too. Come on, girls!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Blue Bonnet! it was practical Sarah who spoke,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, he did not, Sarah. Uncle Cliff doesn't put a limit on what he gives. He said to get what you each liked. You'd better get busy. Kitty's going to have the pick if you don't."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Isn't this perfectly exquisite?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The young lady could wear either of these, with her hair,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Put one of them on, Kitty, Blue Bonnet suggested."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "One could hardly choose, they are both so dear. The blue one is simpler, I think, and blue is your color."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Kitty! Blue Bonnet cried,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is very beautiful, Kitty--very--but I fear--Is it not a little old for you, dear?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The gown is one of our young girl models, madam, and really very simple. The coat is not elaborate either. Indeed it is very plain--as coats go now. I think the young lady could scarcely make a mistake in choosing them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You like them, Kitty?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Mr. Ashe, I perfectly adore them!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then if Mrs. Clyde thinks them suitable, take them, by all means."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wish your Aunt Lucinda might see them first, dear, she said to Blue Bonnet."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hardly feel capable of choosing for Kitty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But Aunt Lucinda said she couldn't possibly get through with her affairs before lunch, Grandmother--you remember hearing her say that, don't you? Well, you see we've got to choose quickly, because the girls want to wear the gowns to the dinner to-night, and if there are any alterations it couldn't be managed. Anyway, Grandmother, I _know_ they're all right. They aren't a speck more elaborate than the girls at Miss North's wear. Please let Kitty have them."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It has been the most wonderful success, Blue Bonnet, Annabel whispered, as the party left the table."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I _did so_ enjoy Kitty Clark. I couldn't keep my eyes off her."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm so glad, Annabel, Blue Bonnet answered, giving the hand in her own a squeeze."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We must hurry a bit now. We're going to the Plymouth to see 'Pomander Walk.' They say it's dear."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Cliff, Blue Bonnet said, when they were finally back at the hotel, and she was saying good night at his own door,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I believe this has been the very happiest day of my life. I can't begin to thank you for it; you've been so good--and so generous. Wasn't it splendid the way the girls took to the dresses--and Aunt Lucinda having that appointment just at that hour? It seemed almost as if--as if the fairies had had a hand in it all, didn't it? We couldn't have arranged it better if we'd tried. But I'm afraid I did Aunt Lucinda an injustice. She didn't mind about our getting the girls the dresses at all. I believe she liked it. She said it was a great privilege to be able to give so much happiness."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You were satisfied, then, Honey? It went off as well as you had expected? You are quite content?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it, Honey? Speak up. Have we left something undone?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's just one thing, Uncle Cliff. I'm almost ashamed to mention it in the face of all you've done to-day--but--it's about Gabriel. If we could only do something for the poor little fellow. Oh, Uncle Cliff, you can't think how it hurts me to see him fading away in that place, when--when there's sunshine going to waste on the Blue Bonnet ranch, and ponies eating their heads off in the stables."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought of that, too, Honey, and--I wasn't going to tell you to-night, Blue Bonnet--you've had enough excitement for one day; but Miss Clyde went to see Gabriel this morning--that was her business engagement--and we're going to take the little chap to Woodford with his nurse for a while. Miss Clyde thinks that she can find a boarding-place. When he gets stronger we'll get him down to the ranch; down into God's own country, Honey, where people have to look in the dictionary to find out what 'tuberculosis' means. There! there! I knew I shouldn't have told you to-night. You're all worn out. Come, come, Honey! the girls are waiting for you."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know whether you girls will enjoy the visit we have to pay to the relatives to-day very much or not. It won't be exciting, but Grandmother and Aunt Lucinda would be hurt if we didn't go."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it's about time we were considering somebody besides ourselves after all that's been done for us, Kitty replied."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall love to go, myself. I met your Cousin Tracy once in Woodford and I liked him ever so much."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel as if they had stepped out of a book--Cranford,--or something!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I mean they are so aristocratic--there is such an atmosphere about them."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And have you initiated the Spanish costume at Miss North's yet, Blue Bonnet?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I haven't worn it myself; but some of the girls have. It makes a fine fancy dress costume. I believe Carita had it last at a Freshman party. She was a picture in it, too."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Girls, it's almost over, Kitty exclaimed disconsolately, as she put her things in her bag that night at the hotel."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wish it were just beginning."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know how I'm going to give up all this elegance and come down to earth, and Woodford again. Oh, dear--a little touch of high life is awfully unsettling!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't feel that way at all, Amanda declared."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It will give me something to think about for weeks to come. Kitty, how are we ever going to pay Mr. Ashe and Blue Bonnet for all they have done?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They don't want any pay, Blue Bonnet said, entering the room at that moment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Cliff says he has had a beautiful time, and--well, I reckon you all know how I've enjoyed it. Could I help you pack? My trunk went from the school yesterday and my bag's all ready."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, I think not, thank you--unless you would be good enough to fold this dress and party coat, Blue Bonnet. I want to keep them as fresh as possible until Mother sees them. They _are_ such loves!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My, but you do that cleverly, Kitty said, as she watched Blue Bonnet's nimble fingers."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It almost makes one wish for an Aunt Lucinda. She taught you a great deal about neatness, didn't she?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She certainly did! I've learned a lot at school, too. Our bureau drawers are inspected regularly. If any one thinks boarding-school is all fun, they're mistaken. You're trained from the ground up!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I see that you take good care of him, Denham, she said, nodding toward the dog affectionately."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And Chula? Is she up from pasture waiting for me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She is, Miss Blue Bonnet, the old coachman answered cheerfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An' right skittish, too. I don't think she's had a saddle to her back since you last rode her. I meant to give her a run yesterday, but Darrell's boy was late getting her in. Think you'd better let me try her out, Miss, before you mount."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, Denham, but Chula is as safe as a lamb. I'll take her out this afternoon and give her a taste of what's before her for the next week. I'll put her through her paces. Don't worry!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She's had poor food all winter, Denham, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Just hay and stuff. Feed her up a bit, and I'll give her a run the first thing in the morning."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hold her a minute, please, Denham, Blue Bonnet called from her bedroom window, which overlooked the side driveway."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll be down in two seconds."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There, girl! Alec rubbed her nose and spoke kindly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's up? Too much high living?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's it exactly, sir, Denham said, touching his hat respectfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wanted Miss Blue Bonnet to let me give her a turn before she mounted, but she thinks she can manage her. She's just feelin' her oats, sir. She'll settle down after the first mile or two."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Better let me give her a run,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't like the way that mare is acting, Alec said to Knight."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Veer round to the left of Blue Bonnet and keep pretty close to her for a while. I'll take the other side."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hold tight, Blue Bonnet, he called, as he came up behind her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're all right! I'm close behind you. Keep up your nerve!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She's only fainted, I'm sure, he said in response to Knight's look of distress."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't believe she's hurt a bit. The mare was only playing; but, by George, wait till I catch her! I'll teach her how to run away in the future!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Chula! she cried, scanning the road eagerly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where is she? Alec, catch her! Catch her quickly! If she goes home without me it will frighten Grandmother to death."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Little devil! he said, laughing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She was browsing up there on the hillside as peaceful as a lamb. Weren't you, old girl?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How dare you strike my horse, Alec Trent! How dare you!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I beg your pardon, he said slowly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I beg your pardon, Blue Bonnet. Not for striking Chula. She needed what I gave her; but for losing my temper. I'm sorry."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you lend me your hand, Knight? she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't believe I can mount alone this time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Blue Bonnet! You're surely not going to ride Chula again to-day! You can't! You're all unstrung! She may run again; you really must not."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your hand, please, Knight,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you leave my horse alone, please? she said angrily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see, she hates your touch!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't be ridiculous, Blue Bonnet! Chula got just what was coming to her. She might have killed you; throwing you like that--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She didn't throw me, Kitty Clark! You don't know what you're talking about! Knight, are you going to help me, or not? If you aren't, I can mount from that log over there."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Really, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think you are very unwise, Blue Bonnet. The mare is excited yet; she might--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't understand, Knight. There is a reason why I _must_ ride Chula--_now, this very minute_. I am not at all nervous--see?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're game, all right, he answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here goes, then."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't say, or"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That was fine, now, wasn't it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Forget it, Alec, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That was only one of Blue Bonnet's flashes. She adores Chula, and she knew she was only playing. You did give the horse a bad cut, though. She needed it, nevertheless. I don't see how Blue Bonnet ever escaped breaking her neck, falling like that!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Were you hurt, Blue Bonnet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not in the least, thank you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope you aren't going to be angry. I did exactly what I would have done to Victor, or any other beast that acted that way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We'll drop the matter, Blue Bonnet said coolly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But there's one thing--I hope you won't feel it your duty to tell Aunt Lucinda about what happened and spoil my vacation. It would put a ban on Chula forever more. My falling was my own fault; not hers. I slipped off in preference to--perhaps--being dragged."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I beg your pardon, Chula girl, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was pretty hard on you, wasn't I? Are you ready to forgive me?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That was plucky--Blue Bonnet's riding the mare home yesterday,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What was that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It was plucky, Knight remarked."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's a true Texan, all right. What got into the mare? Only playing, wasn't she?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose she was, Alec answered, deep in thought."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But it was a serious business, just the same. When Blue Bonnet fell I scarcely knew whether I'd pick her up whole. Not having a scratch is marvelous."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She says she has a guardian angel, Knight said, laughing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Jove, she must have. Only a kind and interested fate saved her yesterday. Well, what's the program to-day?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-day? Nothing in particular. There's the party at the Clarks' to-night. Blue Bonnet's honor, I believe--and yours."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm at the young ladies' disposal,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is about the tea hour, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not particularly long on tea, but I must pay my respects to Miss Clyde and her mother."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just in time,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not wholly forgiven yet, he thought, as he turned his attention to Miss Lucinda."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you mean to say that Chula ran away with you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She was only playing, Aunt Lucinda. Blue Bonnet carefully guarded the fact of her fall."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She felt so good after the long winter at pasture. She didn't mean a bit of harm. I'm sure she didn't."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't you think Chula is a bit wild for Blue Bonnet after being out all winter?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, scarcely wild, Miss Clyde. She was a little frisky yesterday from having been in the stable a few days on extra rations. I think the little run we gave her took away some of her surplus energy. I daresay Blue Bonnet will have to prod her to make her move in a day or two."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Going to stand for that, Blue Bonnet? Knight asked."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't imagine a Texas girl riding anything that had to be prodded. By the way, Kitty tells me that Sarah has become quite expert in the art of riding: asks at the livery stable for 'a horse with some go in him,' and has tried out the best of them."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Good for Sarah! Blue Bonnet exclaimed, grateful to Knight for so tactfully diverting the subject."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That reminds me of the day she first rode Comanche at the ranch. The girls made such fun of her, but she stayed with him gloriously. That was Sarah's first experience with a horse with 'go' in him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "See you and Carita to-night at Kitty's, I suppose, Alec said as he and Knight were leaving a little later."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "May we stop and take you over?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you--yes, Blue Bonnet answered, looking more at Knight than at Alec."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon Delia will resign in your favor. She's been my duenna for some time now."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What am I to do with this, Kitty? Jack asked, lifting a table."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Amanda says it stays here. Is that right?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In other words, I'm not to be depended upon, Amanda said, laughing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I told him that table was for the favors, and had to stay where it was."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's true, Jack, Kitty called from the porch, where she and Ferren were struggling with rugs and Indian blankets."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Amanda's perfectly dependable. That's her one accomplishment--making the truth go as far as possible!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "See? Amanda retorted, making a little _moue_."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Next time you'll take orders direct, and save time, won't you? Isn't it a lark, getting ready for a party? Oh, would you please straighten out these chairs? They have to go all round the room--so! Then perhaps you'd help Debby with the favors. They are in that box by the window. Kitty got the sweetest things in Boston. I do hope some nice man will present me with a pink fan. I'm pining for one for my new gown."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall try to remember, Jack promised humbly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pink, did you say?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Boys, she called to her cousins, who were finishing a hasty lunch in the dining-room,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not as long as it takes you by an hour, Ferren called back."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We'll go up to dress at eight, and then hang round for you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't you ever think it! I dress like chain lightning. Come on, Amanda, we'll show them how long it takes us."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go away! Kitty called."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're all ready. We're just resting a minute."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go away now. You see we _are_ dressed! We only have to put on a few touches; Amanda's flowers and--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know those touches, Kitty. Come along!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Father, you look--just lovely! Kitty said, smiling up to him and noting every detail of his correct evening dress."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Only--just a minute; it's your tie! There! Isn't he splendid, Amelia? My, but this is an occasion! I do hope everybody will have a good time. There's Blue Bonnet. I hear her voice. She's early, isn't she? Amanda, take a peek at the favors, will you, and tell Sarah not to get them mixed. I have explained it all to her a dozen times, but when one doesn't dance, one is apt to bungle."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Some party, Miss Clark! Alec said, bowing before that young lady in his best military form."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was just telling Knight that he was in luck to be introduced to society under such favorable circumstances."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm certainly in luck to be here, Knight said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I see your program, Kitty?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We haven't any programs, Knight. This is to be a cotillion. The _girls_ get a chance to bestow favors. See that table where Sarah is sitting? Come over and I'll explain."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose you are going to say 'how happy I'd be with either,' aren't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Since Knight is the guest of honor I think I'd best dance with him,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You can't resist this vanity box, Blue Bonnet,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Want to sit it out?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you please--I think I should rather."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I say, Blue Bonnet! You're not vexed still about that Chula affair, are you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; certainly not."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're awfully quiet!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I just happen to feel quiet, I reckon."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sorry to miss this two-step. We won't have many more dances."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, there'll be lots of parties."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, I daresay--but not for me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because--I leave in the morning."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In the morning?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My holiday is over. I'm only here at all through a special dispensation of Providence. I ought to be at school this minute, grinding like the mischief. Our exams begin the last Monday in April, and they're no joke."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, that's perfectly outrageous! The very idea, only three days!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But they've been such bully days! It's been so pleasant to see Judson again. He'll be here. He's going to stay on for a week with Grandfather."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And when will you get another holiday?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Two years from next June, if I'm lucky."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How do you mean, lucky?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If I pass the examinations and make the Point. If I do, I enter the twelfth of June for two years."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, it's just like having a sentence! Why didn't you stay at the ranch? One can do as one pleases there, at any rate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's true, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I loved the ranch life, but--you see--Grandfather had chosen the army for me, and when the appointment came, I knew what a disappointment it would be to him if I didn't make a try at it. It's all right though. I like it. There's a fascination about it. Think you don't want to finish this dance?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where's Alec? she inquired of Knight when he came up to her for a dance."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He seems to have disappeared."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I saw him on the veranda talking with Kitty a minute ago, Knight said, peering in that direction."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't believe he's dancing much."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go get Debby, Ferren, Blue Bonnet heard Kitty say."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm taking care of Alec to-night. He's going away to-morrow and we sha'n't see him again for ages."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come over here, girls, Alec has heaps to say to you. Did you know he was going away to-morrow, Blue Bonnet? I never was so surprised in my life! I tell him I think it's right horrid of him and such a scarcity of boys in Woodford."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm going to turn Blue Bonnet and Carita over to Knight's care, she heard him saying."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have to get out early in the morning and there are a few things to be done yet to-night. It's been a great old party, Kitty. If I make the Point you'll have to come down to some of the dances next winter. Good-by. See you all again one of these days, I suppose."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'll see us all to-morrow morning at the station,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've been perfectly horrid to Alec, she confessed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've been angry at him ever since he struck Chula yesterday. I don't know why--Chula did act badly. Perhaps it was because I was so horribly upset. I was so frightened--oh, you can't think how frightened! And now he's going away--for two years--and he'll never know how sorry I am."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why didn't you tell him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wanted to, but I couldn't get a chance. He seemed so terribly interested in Kitty. I couldn't get near him--alone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why don't you write him a note, Blue Bonnet? Write and tell him that you _were_ angry, but that you're all over it now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A note? I hadn't thought of that. How could I get a note to him? He leaves so early in the morning."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Write it now and we'll skip out and put it under his front door. We can slip down-stairs--no one will hear us, and--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Carita! You don't know what you are talking about. It's twenty minutes after twelve this instant. Don't you ever think you could get out of this house without Aunt Lucinda's knowing it. She sleeps with one eye open. No--that won't do. Can't you think of something else?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes-- Carita answered after a moment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You write the note. I always wake early in the morning--I got the habit in Texas and it seems to stay with me. I'll get up and take it over early--very early, and give it to the maid--or--I could send it by Denham, couldn't I? He's always up by six o'clock."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course--the very thing! You're sure you don't mind? You'll be awfully sleepy in the morning."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd love to do it, Carita answered, truthfully. To be of service to Blue Bonnet constituted her greatest happiness."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hurry up and write it!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There it is, she said, eying it with misgivings."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope it's all right, and I haven't been too awfully humble. I don't suppose he cares a rap, anyway--as long as--"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's for Mr. Alec, Denham, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I got the note all right, Blue Bonnet. It was good of you to send it over--makes my going away a lot easier. Hope you have a jolly good vacation. Put Judson through his paces, won't you? Good-by. Send along some of those fine letters of yours and tell me all the news."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come along, Solomon, she said with a faint sigh, after Alec's last salute had been lost to view,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seems to me if I'd had to endure all that the Widow Patten has, I'd have given up long ago, more than one neighbor said, beholding her sorrows and cares; but the Widow Patten _never_ gave up."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The way will open,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, it's Miss Blue Bonnet, she said, smiling a welcome."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come right in. S'pose you want to see Gabriel. He's out in the orchard with Miss Warren. They're both crazy 'bout the fruit blooms and the sunshine."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you arrived safely?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A dog!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pet him, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Gabriel has never known much about dogs, Miss Warren explained."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And just think, Miss Ashe, he's never seen a robin before! That's why he forgot to speak to you; he was entranced."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well--"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's the pony, she said at last."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You haven't forgotten about him, have you? And there are great stretches of land to gallop over as soon as you are well enough--and there's Uncle Cliff, and Uncle Joe and Benita. Benita adores little boys. Just wait until you hear some of her stories and taste her cookies."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stories 'bout Injuns and soldiers?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, some."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Guess it'll suit me all right, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shouldn't wonder if he was a bay--or perhaps brown; and not so very high. Just high enough for a little boy to climb on easily. Were you ever on a pony?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gee--no! Wish I could see him right now!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Would you like to see my pony?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bet yer! he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Could I get on him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Maybe. I'll see."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can you get him now?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon I could--yes."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gee! Oh, I wish--Couldn't I get on one of 'em? Just a minute?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not to-day, dear. You aren't nearly strong enough. I couldn't think of letting you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not if I lifted him very carefully and held him, Miss Warren?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Knight would be very careful,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just for a minute then, if Mr. Judson will be very careful."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Git ap! he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Careful, old girl. This is a little sick boy you have on your back; no capers to-day."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Couldn't he just walk round a minute?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If Mr. Judson takes you round _once_ will you get off willingly, Gabriel?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He will be all right presently, Miss Warren promised, noting Blue Bonnet's and Knight's alarm."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He has no reserve strength yet--but it will come; here, in this sunshine."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It was fine! he said, almost in a whisper."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Fine! Say, bring him again to-morrow, will you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-morrow! Don't forget--you promised!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You can't sit under fruit-trees in bloom every day in the year, Debby had insisted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm for that bench under the peach-tree, myself."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sit down, she said, making room for him on the bench beside her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This is a club meeting, but we're almost through. Love to have you stay to lunch, if you can stand so many girls all at once. I'm going to see if Katie will give it to us out here. We can use that rustic table over there."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lovely! the girls cried in a breath."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Make Knight carry out the chairs."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Knight's awfully obliging, isn't he? Kitty Clark said from her cushion, as she watched his long limbs disappear in the doorway."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And so terribly good looking! How do you suppose he ever got such adorable manners on a Texas range? I noticed them the first time I ever met him. He's really polished, _I_ should say."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a good thing Blue Bonnet didn't hear you say that, Amanda said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't bother, Carita said generously."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know how you feel about it. One doesn't have much society where we live in Texas; but it doesn't matter--if one is _born_ a gentleman."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's gingerbread! Debby announced, sniffing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My, doesn't it smell good!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, and little hot biscuits with orange marmalade, Blue Bonnet added."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Cold ham and hot chocolate, too. Katie's an old dear, isn't she?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Girls, Amanda said, when the meal was nearly finished."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have something to propose. You needn't go away, Knight. Maybe you can help us. Blue Bonnet doesn't know anything about it--but--we're going to have a party, and it's to be for Mr. Ashe."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For Uncle Cliff! Blue Bonnet said, amazed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What kind of a party?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's to be decided, Amanda continued."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think he'd adore it. Where are you going to have it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We haven't decided yet. Where do you think would be the nicest place? You can come to our house--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why not have it here? Blue Bonnet interrupted."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know Grandmother wouldn't mind. In fact, I think she'd love it. I'll go ask her."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All right, the girls agreed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I turn the ice-cream freezer? Knight inquired."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm quite expert at it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You certainly may, Kitty replied."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I engage you right now, and you may report at my house any time before noon to-morrow."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And when Kitty's through with you, you can come over to our house and help stir cakes. I'm down for angel food, and I loathe beating up the eggs,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What am I going to furnish? Blue Bonnet inquired."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is there any other way you shine in the culinary line, Knight?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You furnish the house and the guest of honor! Isn't that enough for one person, I should like to know? Kitty said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Seems to me you ought to be satisfied. If I could bring out an Uncle Cliff I should consider that I had done all the community could ask of me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's right, Kitty Kat. Not many people _can_ produce an Uncle Cliff. But as an especial favor might I contribute candy? I should like to have some claim to Knight's society to-morrow. If he's not utterly worn out with you and Amanda he could help me boil sugar."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Candy's my specialty, Knight declared."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I could come over to-night and we'll make up a lot. I'll show you a Spanish pinoche that's great."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, I know that pinoche--it's a Texas product; but you may come over just the same."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That will be easy, she remarked."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You couldn't drive Uncle Cliff away until my vacation is over. He'll be on hand, don't worry."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where's Uncle Cliff?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Here, Honey. Why, what's the matter? You look as if something dreadful were about to happen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's your bag doing in the hall, Uncle Cliff?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Business, Honey, business. I have to run up to Boston for a day or two."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-day? Oh, Uncle Cliff, not to-day! You can't--possibly. We need you here. We've just _got_ to have you. You said you would stay with me _two whole weeks_. How can you leave me a single minute when we've been separated all these months?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I'll be back to-morrow, Honey."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes--but to-morrow isn't to-day! I specially need you to-day."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very well then, I'll go to-night. What did you want to do to-day?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ever so many things. There's the visit to Gabriel; and the ride out to the farm; and--oh, heaps of things. And to-night--if you'll just stay over _to-night_, Uncle Cliff, I'll try to spare you to-morrow. Really, I will. Please."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm sorry, Blue Bonnet, but I must go this time. I'll be back in a day or two. Why, here, here, Honey! What's this?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nothing--only--I'm so frightfully disappointed. Uncle Cliff, I need you to-night. I want you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I didn't suppose it was as serious as all that, Blue Bonnet. Dry those tears. I'll stay, of course."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wouldn't it have been perfectly dreadful if you had gone away this morning, with all these kind people waiting to do you honor? Why, the We Are Sevens would never have got over it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Neither should I, Honey, Mr. Ashe said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel quite like a debutante. This is the first time a party ever was given in my honor. I assure you I am deeply indebted to the We Are Sevens."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's a 'get acquainted' affair, Mr. Ashe, Kitty said, coming up behind him and insisting upon his meeting everybody at once."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is my father, Doctor Clark--think you've met before; and this is Amanda's mother: she's dying to thank you for all the lovely things you've done for us. Aren't you, Mrs. Parker?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But it hasn't been a little, Mr. Ashe, Mrs. Parker insisted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It has been a very great deal. The Texas trip was wonderful. Amanda will never forget it--never! She talks about it every day, and her descriptions of the Blue Bonnet ranch are so vivid that I almost feel as if I had seen it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't wonder that the girls are enthusiastic about Mr. Ashe, she said to her husband later in the evening."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I had a perfectly delightful visit with him. He's as plain as can be! Nobody would dream he had so much money."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you think it would be lovely to end the party with a Virginia reel?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wasn't it a fine party, Uncle Cliff?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Splendid, Honey! I'm very grateful to the We Are Sevens."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, you needn't be. They adored doing it. They admire you terribly, Uncle Cliff, terribly!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Society has never been much in my line, Honey; but I've enjoyed to-night more than I can tell you. It was very pleasant to be so nicely entertained. I hardly realize what a lonely life I lead until I get in the midst of so much merriment. It does one good to let down the bars and loosen up the reins occasionally. I've almost made up my mind to turn the ranch over to Uncle Joe next winter and take a house in Boston. Would you like that, Blue Bonnet? Or, if you are still in school, I might manage to exist in a hotel until you finish. I know that you can't desert Grandmother for the ranch again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel it is a great deal to ask, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Uncle Cliff! she gasped,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I really truly mean it, Honey. Life's too short for these long separations."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But we're not going to give up the ranch altogether, Uncle Cliff? We couldn't, you know!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, not altogether, Honey. I reckon the summers will find us there pretty regularly; and there's Gabriel now, remember. We can't desert the little fellow when he needs us so."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We wouldn't desert the Blue Bonnet ranch anyway--under any circumstances. We'll just be commuters, and sort of vibrate between our old home and the new--then we'll all be happy."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel as if I'd been sailing in an airship and had just got back to earth, she said to Annabel Jackson who was diligently pursuing a French lesson."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How _can_ you dig in that way, Annabel, after all the exciting times you had at home? I can't! I'd like to drop this old geometry into the Red Sea."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've _got_ to dig, Annabel replied complacently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't such an easy thing to graduate from Miss North's as some people think. I've earned every inch of the little sheepskin I'll carry home next June, I can tell you--if I'm lucky enough to get it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, you'll get it, Annabel. You're a shark at lessons. What are you going to do next year?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know yet. Mother has given me the choice between a year's travel and a college course. Father wants me to come home and renew my acquaintance with the family. I think--perhaps--I'll take his advice. This is the fourth year I've been away. A long time, isn't it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Indeed it is! Will you go into society? Have a coming-out party and all that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hardly think so. In the South we don't come out; we grow out! I can't remember when I went to my first party; along with my dolls, I reckon."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose that's why you are always so at ease in company. You aren't the least bit self conscious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Flatterer!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No such thing. I never flatter. I admire you awfully! You know I do."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, Blue Bonnet. I believe you mean it. You're the most truthful person I know. Now! There's a compliment for you."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you busy for the next half hour, Blue Bonnet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, not very. Why?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I thought maybe you'd run over some accompaniments for me. Miss North has insisted upon my singing Sunday night when she has that little tea for the illustrious Alfred Noyes, who is going to read some of his poems to us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course. I'd love to."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Annabel has something--I don't know what--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Temperament, my dear; a gift of the gods! Annabel is naturally emotional. It is her Southern heritage. When she sings she _feels_; that is what you recognize and can't explain."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let's have a game of tennis, Blue Bonnet suggested when they had finished practising."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've got to exercise. If I keep on gaining weight I'll be able to wear Wee's clothes without the slightest difficulty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Blue Bonnet, you know I loathe it! Get Patty--she's so expert it makes it worth while to play. I'm no match for you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You weren't made for athletics, Annabel. You're put up wrong--architecturally."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Praise be!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "See you later, Blue Bonnet called."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you love me awfully you might make me a cup of tea when I get in. I'll be ravenous! Take a look in my shirtwaist box. I think you'll find some crackers and ginger snaps in the right-hand corner. Good-by!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Cleaning? Blue Bonnet asked, throwing down her racket and dropping in a heap on the couch."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Whew! I gave Patty a run to-day. What's the matter with the Princess Louise?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ruth had her between that Madonna and the Princeton chap and it got on my nerves, Annabel complained."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The frames screamed at each other, anyway. I can't stand gold and ebony and oak in a medley. A little lower, Ruth. You know it must be on a level with your eyes. That's better! She'll be happier there and so shall I. I'm terribly fussy. I feel about pictures as I do about books. They have a right to an environment. I couldn't any more stand Shakespeare up beside a best seller than I could fly. How did your game come out?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I beat Patty all hollow--six love!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Six love! Really? Why, that's splendid! Keep on and you'll make a record."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I expect to."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sorry to have to run, she said, gathering up her belongings,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Junior spread committee, I suppose,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We've waited this meeting for you twenty minutes, Blue Bonnet, and it's very important. We've decided on a play and you have the leading part."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I--a leading part? How ridiculous! I never acted in my life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then it's time you began. You don't know what you've missed. You play Oonah, an Irish girl who comes under the spell of the fairies. It's a perfectly sweet part--you'll love it! There are a lot of good parts, and we're wild to begin rehearsals. Isn't it a shame that Angela is a Senior? There's a wonderful part that she could do--a young poet called Aillel, who makes a great sacrifice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wouldn't Sue do?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, not at all! It takes a very stunning, tall person--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thanks awfully for the compliment!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sue! You know I didn't mean anything. It takes a rather masculine person. I think Helen Renwick, perhaps--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Much obliged, Wee. I adore that type, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'd better choose another class president, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm ready to resign. If any of you think my job's fun, you're welcome to try it!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nobody's angry, Wee--stop it! There couldn't any one take your place. You're doing the best you can for all of us--we know that. Sue and Helen were only joking."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sue hasn't anything to grumble about, Wee insisted."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She has a perfectly dear comedy part: a deaf old lady who's always hearing things wrong. _I_ think it's great."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now we're all agreed, are we, that this play is what we want to present? the president said, rapping for order."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Shall we vote on it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very well. The duty of making it the best ever given in the school rests with the cast. I am at your service at all times. We shall now adjourn to meet to-morrow afternoon at five o'clock and continue the arrangements."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel as if I were being driven, Blue Bonnet said one day to Sue Hemphill, disconsolately."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Would you mind hearing me say my lines, Sue? I think I almost have them. I'll begin at my second entrance. I'm sure I know up to there perfectly. I don't know what ever made me take this part. I'm sure to forget at a critical moment."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't wiggle so, Blue Bonnet, she commanded, as that young person squirmed under the rigorous treatment she was receiving."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll have you looking like a Chinaman in a minute if you don't hold still. I've got to take that eyebrow off--it slants too much. There--that's better! Isn't it, Wee? Wait a minute."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have to study your subjects, she said finally,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't necessary that I should look like a house afire, is it? I'm not going to have another bit, Sue, and you needn't insist. Uncle Cliff would have a fit if he could see me; and Aunt Lucinda! mercy, she'd think I was disgraced forever. Ugh! I think I look a fright!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you've _got_ to do it, Blue Bonnet. Why, you'd look ghastly behind the footlights without any color. Come now--please. Wet your lips and put them out--so! There, that's fine. Wee, turn up the lights on the stage and take a look at Blue Bonnet. Go to the back of the room. See if you think she's made up too much."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perfectly lovely! Wee called a moment later."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're just b-e-a-utiful! Your best friends will never know you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, do be careful, Sue cautioned as Blue Bonnet gave her seat to Helen Renwick, who stood patiently waiting, cold creamed to the proper consistency."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And don't, under _any_ circumstances, use your handkerchief. You'll look like a painted sunset at close range if you do. Grease paint's terribly smeary. Please be careful, won't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Wee, she said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm scared to death! I believe I'm threatened with stage fright. Do you know how it comes on? Feel my hands."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Absurd! Wee said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you think you caught it--like measles or chicken-pox?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think it's caught _me_, Wee. I feel so sort of choky--and queer."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'll get over it. Don't worry. You look too sweet for words. Take a peek at the stage. It's a dream."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wee! it called excitedly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're wanted in Clare Peters' dressing-room instantly. They've sent her the wrong wig. It should be grey, and its blond and curly--imagine!--Clare's frantic."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't do a thing with it, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I told that stupid man at the costumer's that it had to be grey--I--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go for Sue Hemphill,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My, but she's a wonder! commented the leader of the fairies, who had watched the operation in amazement."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sue certainly is a whiz!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "SHE WAS OONAH, THE BEWITCHING LITTLE IRISH MAIDEN."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Blue Bonnet--you mustn't go to pieces like this--it's dreadful! Try to calm yourself and think of your lines. You'll be all right in a minute--just as soon as you're on the stage. I know you're going to do well. This awful nervousness is a part of the game--it's the artistic temperament."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mercy! you look as if you'd lost your last friend, Annabel,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have, I'm afraid--or will, Annabel answered dolefully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you realize that in just fifteen days we shall be saying good-by to these old walls, forever--you and I? I didn't think it was going to be so hard, Ruth. Doesn't it break you all up when you think of it? Do you relish the idea of other girls having this room next year--hanging their things in our closets; planning feasts and frolics behind barred doors while we pass on to the ranks of 'young women?' The idea doesn't appeal to me as much as I thought it was going to."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wonder where they'll keep their provisions, she said, eyes toward the box couch which had secluded many a staple article."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you suppose they'll find the refrigerator, and know enough to make black curtains for the transoms?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let's put them on, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Write a letter and will them our secrets. We can hide it in the refrigerator."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Splendid!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Better get ink, Ruth. Who ever heard of a last will and testament being written in pencil? Here! let me do it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To you, whoever you may be (we hope the best ever), Ruth Biddle of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Annabel Jackson of Nashville, Tennessee, former occupants, do bequeath our good will, our confidence, our social standing (which is thrown in gratis along with the most expensive room in the school), and do entrust to your everlasting protection such of our possessions as you may find useful and necessary. The black cloths, which you will find in this secret hiding-place, fit the transoms over the door and in the bathroom. The candles you will find convenient for midnight feasts and orgies; the refrigerator indispensable for cold storage; the box couch excellent for provisions, such as Nabiscos, crackers and cookies. To you also we do bequeath the residue of our estate: the wicker tea-table; the picture of the Queen Louise; the china cat on the mantel-piece, which has proved an invaluable mascot. This together with our best wishes, congratulations, and the hope that you will continue to dispense hospitality and radiate good cheer and comfort from these portals. Signed:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Witnessed by:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't mean to say you're going to give your tea-table to utter strangers, do you, Annabel?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't mean to pay storage or freight on it. Certainly I'm going to leave it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And the Queen Louise? I thought you adored her!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I did once, but she makes me so nervous, eternally coming down those stairs, gazing off into the distance as if she were treading on air. I'm getting terribly tired of her."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And the cat? You remember the day you bought that, Annabel? You were about the most homesick person in Boston. You said it looked like your own 'Lady Jane Grey' at home, and you cuddled it half the night. I don't see how you can part with it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, it goes with the room, Annabel answered indifferently."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know yourself it's kept away mice. We've never had _one_, and look at Wee Watts' room, and the sky parlor--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Girls! she said excitedly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Really, Blue Bonnet? Do you mean it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course I mean it. And Annabel--isn't it too splendid?--every one of the Lambs has brought her average up to eighty, so we can all go! We are to leave Friday and get back early Monday morning. Patty's perfectly wild about it, and her mother's a dear."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Blue Bonnet, have you heard the news? We're to go--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should say I have, Blue Bonnet interrupted."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I came to tell you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Angela got ahead of you. Come in. Patty will be up in a minute. She and her mother are making arrangements with Miss North. Isn't it too utterly splendid?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And Fairview Cottage is the most ideal spot in the world, Angela put in dreamily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm so glad that it is full moon time. There's a place around Sargentville called Caterpillar Hill, with the most fascinating road winding up to it. I loved it so that I wrote an ode to it last year when I visited Patty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will the family all be there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I fancy not, Angela said. Being Patty's room-mate, she was well up on the Paine affairs."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mrs. Paine is going down to open the cottage for the summer. The servants all went yesterday. Patty says she's going to try to get the boys to come up over Sunday, but she isn't at all sure they can--they're at Yale, you know."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The boys"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Isn't Sargentville the place where Ben Billings' family have a summer home?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Her home is in the Middle West; But what's the difference, pray, With Harvard, dear old Harvard, Scarce five miles away?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, of course they have, Angela answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ben was there last summer. He was awfully attentive to me. We went rowing together no end of times. Their home is only a stone's throw from Fairview. You must be awfully nice to Mrs. Paine, Sue; maybe she'll ask you to remain on--over into the summer."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, it's almost a mansion! she whispered to Annabel, with whom she occupied a charming room."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "One almost gets lost in it. I didn't know that Patty was so rich."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seems almost as if they were saying, 'Come down! Come down!' as they wink up at us, Blue Bonnet said, watching them, quite fascinated."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look, Angela!"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will some one kindly bring Angela back to earth, Sue said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ask her if she'd exchange that view for the sight of a ham sandwich. I'm starving."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're going to sail through the islands to-day, Patty announced at breakfast."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "At noon we'll stop somewhere and cook lunch. There are lots of lovely places. We might have a little service, too. I think Miss North would like it. Angela can read the prayers and the lesson for the day and we'll sing our favorite hymns. And then I thought it would be nice, if we have time, to have a sort of farewell meeting of the Lambs--we won't be together much longer, you know."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't believe any of us could stand a _last_ meeting, Patty. I hoped we wouldn't have any."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But there's business,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Our vows and pledges for time to come,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I move we write them and have them recorded, by our secretary, on the books, Annabel suggested."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm with Blue Bonnet. It's going to wrench my very soul to give up the Lambs. Oh, girls, I love you all so much, and maybe I'll never see any of you again after this year."
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mercy on us, Annabel, she said with scorn, though the twitching of her lips belied her bravado,"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have quite decided to go back to the ranch with Uncle Cliff for the summer, dear?"
}
] |
23916
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I _think_ so, Grandmother, she said presently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It seems almost as if I should. Uncle Cliff needs me--and there's Gabriel, too! I should like to get him started in his new quarters. Do you know what Uncle Cliff is doing? Having a sleeping-porch built for him. We're going to bring him up outdoors. Doctor Clark says we won't know him in a year. The change has been perfectly wonderful in the little time he has been in Woodford. I had a letter from Miss Warren yesterday. She says he's crazy over the little Shetland pony Uncle Cliff bought for him--that he has a short ride every morning. Knight Judson has been spending a week-end with the General and he's been awfully kind to Gabriel. The pony? Oh, we were a little afraid to trust Gabriel to a Texas mustang yet, so Uncle Cliff found this little fellow. We're going to ship him ahead of our departure, so as to be at the ranch ready for Gabriel."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gabriel is a very lucky boy, Mrs. Clyde said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A _very_ lucky boy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I don't know, Grandmother. He _is_--of course. But we're lucky, too--Uncle Cliff and I. You can't think what company he'll be to us. It's going to keep us from growing selfish and self-centred to have him. You know I've always wanted an orphan asylum all my own. This is just a starter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you ever look ahead into the future, Blue Bonnet, and plan your life a little? Aunt Lucinda asked."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It seems to me that you are old enough now. Your mother was but a year older when she married."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you want me to think about--that--too?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; not yet. You are younger for your years than your mother was, and times have changed; but there is a forward movement all over the world to-day--onward and upward. I should like to feel that with the many blessings meted out to you, you could find your place in the world's work--become an avenue for good. I wish that you might have a definite purpose and work to an end. That is the only way to accomplish anything."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's just exactly the way _I_ feel, Aunt Lucinda. For that reason I should like to come back here to school next year and be near Miss North. She has promised to let me do settlement work--to have a day each month at Dennison House--and Uncle Cliff has already put aside some money for my use. Gabriel isn't the only forlorn child in the world. Perhaps in the years to come he and I may be able to relieve others in distress--help make the world a little easier for those less fortunate than ourselves. That's what I _want_ to do. That's what I _will_ do!"
}
] |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.