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Alignment-Lab-AI

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GutenDialogue2

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[ { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe you can come down to the seashore on an excursion, said Nan to her friends." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They often have Sunday-school excursions to Sunset Beach." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We will if we can, answered Mabel," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh yes, do! insisted Nan." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'll be home all winter I guess, but I might go to boarding school. Anyhow, I'll write to you. Good-bye, girls!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good-bye!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "What a perfectly lovely time we have had!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, the country can't be beat! answered her twin brother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Still, I'll be glad to get to the seashore, won't you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh yes; I want to see Cousin Dorothy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I want to see the big ocean," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I want to ride on one of the funny donkeys, lisped Flossie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I want to make a sand castle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Me too!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hurrah for the seashore!" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "WANTED, A PEDIGREE," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What a storm! there will be no going out to-day even for the early stroll about the grounds with papa, sighed Lucilla Raymond one December morning, as she lay for a moment listening to the dash of rain and sleet against her bedroom windows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, well! I must not fret, knowing who appoints the changes of the seasons, and that all He does is for the best, her thoughts ran on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Besides, what pleasures we can all have within doors in this sweetest of homes and with the dearest and kindest of fathers!" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "And I'll not see Chester to-day, she sighed half-aloud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was evident when he was here last night that he had taken a cold, and I hope he won't think of venturing out in such weather as this." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Good-morning, Lu. As usual, you are up and dressed before your lazy younger sister has begun the duties of the toilet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Take care what you say, young woman, laughed Lucilla, facing round upon her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am not going to have my delicate younger sister slandered in that fashion. She is much too feeble to leave her bed at the early hour which suits her older and stronger sister." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Very kind in you to see it in that light, laughed Grace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But I must make haste now with my dressing. Papa may be coming in directly, for it is certainly much too stormy for him and you to take your usual stroll in the grounds." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It certainly is, assented Lu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just listen to the hail and rain dashing against the windows. And there comes papa now," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Grace is not up yet?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, papa, but not dressed yet; so that I shall have you to myself for a while," }, { "from": "human", "value": "A great privilege that, he said with a smile, passing a hand caressingly over her hair as he spoke." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is storming hard, so that you and I must do without our usual early exercise about the grounds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, sir; and I am sorry to miss it, though a chat with my father here and now is not so bad an exchange." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think we usually have that along with the walk," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, sir, so we do; and you always manage to make the shut-in days very enjoyable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is what I wish to do. Lessons can go on as usual with you and Grace as well as with the younger ones, and after that we can have reading, music, and quiet games." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And Grace and I have some pretty fancy work to do for Christmas time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, yes! and I presume you will both be glad to have a little--or a good deal--of extra money with which to purchase gifts or materials for making them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If you feel quite able to spare it, father, she returned with a pleased smile;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I can easily spare you each a hundred dollars, he said in a cheery tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Will that be enough, do you think?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, I shall feel rich! she exclaimed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How very good, kind, and liberal you are to us and all your children, papa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And fortunate in being able to be liberal to my dear ones. There is no greater pleasure than that of gratifying them in all right and reasonable desires. I think that as soon as the weather is suitable for a visit to the city we will take a trip there for a day's shopping. Have you and Grace decided upon any particular articles that you would like to give?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We have been doing some bits of fancy work, father, and making up some warm clothing for the old folks and children among our poor neighbors--both white and colored; also a few things for our house servants. And to let you into a secret, she added with a smile and a blush," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am embroidering some handkerchiefs for Chester." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, that is right! he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chester will value a bit of your handiwork more than anything else that you could bestow upon him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Except perhaps the hand itself," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But that he knows he cannot have for some time, her father said, taking in his the one resting on the arm of his chair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This belongs to me at present and it is my fixed purpose to hold it in possession for at least some months to come." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, sir; I know that and highly approve of your intention. Please never give up your claim to your eldest daughter so long as we both live." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, daughter, nothing is further from my thoughts," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What do you want from Santa Claus, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Really, I have not considered that question, he laughed;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is pleasant to know that, father dear; and now please tell me what you think would be advisable to get for Mamma Vi, Elsie, and Ned." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Can't we send presents to brother Max, papa?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hardly, I think, was the reply," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And he'll miss all the good times the rest of us have. It's just too bad!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We will try to have some more good times when he is with us," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, so we can!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I came in principally on your account, Lu, he said, when greetings had been exchanged." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Chester has taken a rather severe cold so that I, as his physician, have ordered him to keep within doors for the present; which he deeply regrets because it cuts him off from his daily visits here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, is he very ill?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, no! only in danger of becoming so unless he takes good care of himself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you will see to it that he does so, Cousin Arthur?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; so far as I can, returned the doctor, with a slight smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My patients, unfortunately, are not always careful to obey orders." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When they don't the doctor cannot be justly blamed for any failure to recover, remarked the captain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I trust Chester will show himself docile and obedient." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Which I dare say he will if Lu sides strongly with the doctor," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My influence, if I have any, shall all be on that side, was Lucilla's quiet rejoinder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He and I might have a bit of chat over the telephone, if he is able to go to it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Able enough for that, said the doctor," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of course I shall do that, she returned laughingly," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not while he is a lover and liable to be sent adrift by his lady-love," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There, daughter, take your place and reply as you deem fit," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aunt Sue, she called," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Chester says, thank you; he will be glad to see any or all of the Woodburn people; but you must not venture out till the storm is over." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We won't, returned Lucilla." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Good-by." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "In your partial eyes, she returned with a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, it is very true that love is blind. Oh, Chester! I often wonder what you ever found to fancy in me!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, she laughed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Don't be disturbed. I'll risk it, he laughed. Then added more seriously," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Lu, darling, I think I'm a wonderfully fortunate fellow in regard to the matter of my suit for your heart and hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wish you may never see cause to change your mind, you dear boy! she said, glad tears springing to her eyes," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, he said teasingly," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, she laughed," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I should be sorry to seem inhospitable, Chester, but it is growing late and I am loath to have my daughter lose her beauty sleep. Don't for a moment think I want to hurry you away from Woodburn, though; the room you occupied during your illness is at your service and you are a most welcome guest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Many thanks, captain; but I think I should go back to the Oaks at once lest someone should be waiting up for me. I should have brought my night key, but neglected to do so," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now, daughter, you may bid me good-night, then make prompt preparations for bed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, papa, let me stay five minutes with you, she entreated." }, { "from": "human", "value": "See, I have something to show you," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, an engagement ring! he said with a smile;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I should enjoy it more if I were quite sure Chester could well afford it," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Don't let that trouble you, said her father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Chester is doing very well, and probably your father will be able to give some assistance to you and him at the beginning of your career as a married couple. Should Providence spare me my present income, my dear eldest daughter shall not be a portionless bride." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Papa, you are very, very good to me! she exclaimed with emotion," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dear child, he said, drawing her into his arms," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do not intend it shall be even one mile. My plan is to build a house for you and Chester right here on the estate, over yonder in the grove. Some day in the near future we three will go together and select the exact spot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, papa, what a delightful idea! she exclaimed, looking up into his face with eyes dancing with pleasure;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, daughter mine; that is why I want to have your home so near. Now bid me good-night and get to bed with all speed," }, { "from": "human", "value": "They are going to have a Christmas tree at Ion, one at Fairview, one at Roselands, and I suppose one at the Oaks, remarked Ned Raymond one morning at the breakfast table." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I guess folks think Elsie and I have grown too old for such things," }, { "from": "human", "value": "A very sensible conclusion, my son, said the captain cheerfully, with a twinkle of amusement in his eye." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But now that you have grown so manly you can enjoy more than ever giving to others. The presents you have bought for your little cousins can be sent to be put on their trees, those for the poor to the schoolhouses; and if you choose you can be there to see the pleasure with which they are received. Remember what the Bible says: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, so it is! cried the little fellow, his face brightening very much." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do like to give presents and see how pleased folks look that get them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And as papa is so liberal to all of us in the matter of pocket money, we can every one of us have that pleasure," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; and I know we're going to, laughed Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We didn't go so many times to the city and stay so long there for nothing. And I don't believe grandma and papa and mamma did either." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, said his mother;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, mamma! and I'm glad to be the big fellow that I am, even if it does make me have to give up some of the fun I had when I was small," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And to-night will be Christmas Eve, won't it, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, daughter; and some of us will be going this afternoon to trim the tree in the schoolhouse. Do you, Elsie and Ned, want to be of the party?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, sir! yes, indeed! was the joyous answering exclamation of both. Then Elsie asked:" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Are you going too, mamma? Sisters Lu and Gracie too?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There! said Violet at length, stepping back a little and taking a satisfied survey," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think we have finished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not quite, said Harold." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But you and the girls may please retire while Herbert and I attend to some small commissions of our good brother--the captain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah! I was not aware that he had given you any, laughed Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But come, girls, we will slip away and leave them to their own devices." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am entirely willing to do so," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I, too, said Grace, hastening after them," }, { "from": "human", "value": "What is it, Harold? asked Herbert." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The captain has not let me into his secret." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only that his gifts to them--his wife and daughters--are in this closet and to be taken out now and added to the fruits of this wondrous tree," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah! something sizable, I should say," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; what do you suppose they contain? returned his brother, as they drew them out." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, this top one--somewhat smaller than the others--bears little Elsie's name, I see, and the other three must be for Vi, Lu, and Grace. Probably they are new cloaks or some sort of wraps." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Altogether likely, assented Herbert." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, when they are opened in the course of the evening, we shall see how good a guess we have made. And here, taking a little package from his pocket," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah! do you know what it is?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not I, laughed Herbert," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; and possibly more as regards the giver; though Lu is evidently exceedingly fond of her father." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, indeed! as all his children are and have abundant reason to be." }, { "from": "human", "value": "These large boxes we will pile at the foot of the tree; Vi's at the bottom, Elsie's at the top, the other two in between." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A very good arrangement," }, { "from": "human", "value": "There, we have quite finished and I feel pretty well satisfied with the result of our labors," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, assented Herbert," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; if no call comes for my services elsewhere." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "We had just got all the things on the tree when the folks began to come, Elsie said:" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; and the boys were just as pleased with their coats and shoes, said Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And the old folks too with what they got, I guess. I heard some of them thank papa and say he was a very good, kind gentleman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As we all think, said Violet, with a pleased smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But come upstairs with me now; for it is almost tea time and you need to be made neat for your appearance at the table." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, what a pile of big, big boxes! exclaimed Elsie." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And there's my name on the top one! Oh, papa, may I open it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh! oh! she cried," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If it fits you, he replied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Let me help you to try it on. He suited the action to the word, while Harold lifted the box and pointing to the next one, said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This seems to be yours, Gracie. Shall I lift the lid for you?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, if you please, she cried." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh! oh! one for me too! Oh, how lovely!" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed! if you please," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, how lovely! how lovely! she exclaimed, examining it critically." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Papa, thank you ever so much!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You are heartily welcome, daughters, both of you," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Here, Lu, I see this bears your name, said Harold, taking a small package from the tree and handing it to her. She took it, opened it, and held up to view a beautiful gold chain and locket. As she opened the latter," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "From Chester, she said with a blush and a smile," }, { "from": "human", "value": "His own? asked Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, yes! and a most excellent one," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, here's another big bundle! exclaimed Ned;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Let me open it for you, my dear," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, they are lovely! she said with a look of delight," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There is a Christmas gift from Captain Raymond to his youngest son. What do you think of it, my boy?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, papa, cried the little fellow, clapping his hands joyously," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope so indeed, said his father;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, papa! but mayn't I ride him about here a while just now, so as to be sure I'll know how to manage him on the road?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, yes; I think that's a good idea; but first put on your overcoat and cap. The air is too cool for a ride without them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, mamma and sisters! cried Ned, turning about to find them standing near as most interested spectators," }, { "from": "human", "value": "The very best for you, I think, sonny boy," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And we are all very glad for you," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I as well as the rest, dear Ned," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And we expect you to prove yourself a brave and gallant horseman, very kind and affectionate to your small steed," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed, I do mean to be ever so good to him, rejoined the little lad, rushing to the hat-stand and, with his mother's help, hastily assuming his overcoat and cap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm all ready, papa," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, my son, and so shall I be when I have slipped on my coat and cap," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I don't quite like that cough, Chester, said Dr. Conly at length," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, Cousin Art, returned Chester with a smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That would be a most agreeable medicine if I could spare the time and take with me the present company, or even a part of it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Meaning Lu, I presume, Ches," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Among the rest; she is one of the present company," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What do you say, captain, to taking your family down there for a few weeks? asked Dr. Conly, adding," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I don't think it would be a bad thing for Grace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I should have no objection if any of my family need it, or if they all wish to go," }, { "from": "human", "value": "A visit to Florida would be something new and very pleasant, I think," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I do, papa, said Grace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you for recommending it for me, Cousin Arthur," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Being very healthy I do not believe I need it, but I should greatly enjoy going with those who do, said Lucilla, adding in an aside to Chester, who sat next her," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do hope you can go and get rid of that trying cough." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Perhaps after a while; not just yet, was his low-toned reply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hardly know what I should like better." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, don't let business hinder; your life and health are of far more importance than that, or anything else." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Are we going in our yacht, papa?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Some of us, perhaps, but it is unfortunately not large enough to hold us all comfortably," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not by any means, said Dr. Conly," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I will procure the needed books, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "An excellent idea, my dear, said Violet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think we will all enjoy it, for I know that Florida's history is an interesting one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Were you ever there, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; and I found it a lovely place to visit at the right time of the year." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That means the winter time, I suppose?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; we should find it unpleasantly warm in the summer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "How soon are we going, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Probably about the 1st of February." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To stay long?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That will depend largely upon how we enjoy ourselves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The study of the history of Florida will be very interesting, I am sure, father, said Lucilla;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, he replied," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I suppose not until after New Year's--as we are to go through quite a round of family reunions. But in the meantime I will, as I said, procure the needed books." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And shall we learn lessons in them in school time, papa?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, son; when we are alone together in the evenings--or have with us only those who care to have a share in learning all they can about Florida. Our readers may then take turns in telling the interesting facts they have learned from the books. Do you all like the plan?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "You should go by all means, Chester, said Dr. Conly," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think I can arrange to go by the 1st of February, replied Chester," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Of one in particular, I presume," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Will you take us in the yacht, my dear?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "If the weather proves suitable we can go in that way--as many as the _Dolphin_ can accommodate comfortably. Though probably some of the company would prefer travelling by rail, as the speedier and, at this season, the safer mode," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If we take the yacht you, mamma, will go with us in it, of course, observed Violet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Grandpa and Grandma, too." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, daughter, the yacht always seems very pleasant and homelike to me, and I have great confidence in my honored son-in-law as her commander," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, mother, I fully appreciate the kindness of that remark. Then turning to his wife's grandfather," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you, sir, and your good wife, I hope may feel willing to be of our company should we decide to take the yacht?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, captain; I think it probable we will," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I wish my three brothers may be able to accompany us also," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Well, daughters, he said, taking a seat between them on the sofa and putting an arm about the waist of each," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hope you have enjoyed this first day of a new year?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed, papa, both replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And we hope you have also," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have, he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think we may well be called a happy and favored family. But I wonder, he added with a smiling glance from one to the other," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, papa! they both exclaimed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am well satisfied that you should think it enough, he returned laughingly," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, thank you, papa!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What is it, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "A certificate of stock which will increase your allowance of pocket money to about ten dollars a week." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, how nice! how kind and generous you are, papa!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And mine is just the same, is it not, papa? asked Lucilla, taking her turn in bestowing upon him the same sort of thanks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But oh, I am afraid you are giving us more than you can well spare!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, daughter dear, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hope so, papa, said Grace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You have taught us that our money is a talent for which we will have to give an account." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, daughter, I hope you will always keep that in mind, and be neither selfish nor wasteful in the use you put it to." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do not mean to be either, papa, she returned;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Whenever it pleases you to do so I shall be happy to listen and advise you to the best of my ability," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Aren't Elsie and I to help read them, papa?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You may both do so if you choose, their father replied," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, papa! and your way is always best, exclaimed Elsie, her eyes beaming with pleasure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Neddie, turning to her brother," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed! he cried," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I like it a great deal better. I guess papa's way is best after all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, so they have come--your ordered works on Florida, captain?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; will you help yourself to one or more and join us in the gathering up of information in regard to the history, climate, productions, et cetera, of that part of our country?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, captain, I will be very glad to do so, was the prompt and pleased reply." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Glad to join in your studies now and your visits to the localities afterward." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That last, I am thinking, will be the pleasantest part, said Grace;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father, said Lucilla," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I can if it is desired by all of you," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before Neddie and I have to go to bed, papa, please," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, daughter, you and Neddie shall be of the audience, replied her father, patting affectionately the little hand she had laid upon his knee." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My lecture will not be a very lengthy one, and if not quite over by your usual bedtime, you and Ned, if not too sleepy to be interested listeners, may stay up until its conclusion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, thank you, sir!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, papa, said her brother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'll not grow sleepy while you are telling the story, unless you make it very dull and stupid." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, son, have I ever done that? asked his father, looking much amused, and Elsie exclaimed," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, Ned! papa's stories are always ever so nice and interesting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Most always, returned the little fellow, hanging his head and blushing with mortification;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "For which papa doesn't blame his little boy in the least," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, here comes the Ion carriage with Grandma Elsie and Evelyn in it. Now, papa, you will have quite an audience." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If they happen to want the same thing that the rest of you do," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "De Leon thought he had found the paradise of which he was in search. He went up the river, but by mistake took a chain of lakes, supposing them to be a part of the main river, and finally reached a great sulphur and mineral spring which is now called by his name. He did not stay long, but soon sailed southward to the end of the peninsula, then back to Puerto Rico. Nine years afterward he tried to plant a colony in Florida, but the Indians resisted and mortally wounded him. He retreated to Cuba and soon afterward died there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then did the Spaniards let the Indians have their own country in peace, papa?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "He and his men were entirely unsuccessful: they found no gold, the Indians were hostile, provisions scarce; and finally they built boats in which to escape from Florida. The boats were of a very rude sort and the men knew nothing about managing them. So, though they set sail, it was to make a most unsuccessful voyage. They nearly perished with cold and hunger and many were drowned in the sea. The boat that carried Narvaez was driven out to sea and nothing more was ever heard of him. Not more than four of his followers escaped." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, my dear, suppose you take your turn now as narrator and give us a brief sketch of the doings of Fernando de Soto, the Spaniard who next undertook to conquer Florida." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "It was on the 18th of May, 1539, that De Soto left Cuba with one thousand men-at-arms and three hundred and fifty horses. He landed at Tampa Bay--on the west coast--on Whitsunday, 25th of May. His force was larger and of more respectable quality than any that had preceded it. And he was not so bad and cruel a man as his predecessor--Narvaez." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Did Narvaez do very bad things to the poor Indians, mamma?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed! replied her mother;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, mamma, how very, very cruel! cried Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had Ucita's mother done anything to Narvaez to make him treat her so?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, mamma! were they going to burn him to death?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "From that time Mocoso treated Ortiz with the affection of a brother." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, how nice! exclaimed little Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But when Ucita heard that Ortiz was gone, what did he do about it?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The historian goes on to tell us that when Mocoso's mother heard where he had gone she was terrified at the thought of what injury might be done to him--no doubt remembering the sad misfortune of Ucita and his mother, so cruelly dealt with by the treacherous Spaniards. In the greatest distress she hurried to the camp of De Soto and implored him to set her son at liberty and not treat him as Ucita had been treated by Pamphilo. 'If he has offended you,' she said, 'consider that he is but young and look upon his fault as one of the common indiscretions of youth. Let him go back to his people and I will remain here and undergo whatever sufferings you may choose to inflict.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What a good kind mother! exclaimed Elsie Raymond." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope they didn't hurt her or her son either." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, said her mother;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "De Soto tried to convince her that he considered himself under obligations to Mocoso, and that he had only intended to treat him in a most friendly manner. But all he could say did not remove the anxiety of the poor frightened woman, for she had come to believe the whole Spanish nation treacherous and cruel. Mocoso himself at last persuaded her that he was entirely free to go or stay as he pleased. Still she could not altogether banish her fears, and before leaving she took Juan Ortiz aside and entreated him to watch over the safety of his friend, and especially to take heed that the other Spaniards did not poison him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Did Mocoso stay long? and did they harm him, mamma?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stayed eight days in the Spanish camp, replied Violet;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Christians, mamma? What Christians?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That was what the Spaniards called themselves, she answered;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I have been reading Wilmer's 'Travels and Adventures of De Soto,' she said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He tells much that is interesting in regard to the Indians inhabiting Florida when the Spaniards invaded it. One tribe was the Natchez, and he says that they and other tribes also had made some progress in civilization; but the effect of that invasion was a relapse into barbarism from which they have never recovered. At the time of De Soto's coming they had none of the nomadic habits for which the North American Indians have since been remarkable. They then lived in permanent habitations and cultivated the land, deriving their subsistence chiefly from it, though practising hunting and fishing, partly for subsistence and partly for sport. They were not entirely ignorant of arts and manufactures and some which they practised were extremely ingenious. They had domestic utensils and household furniture which were both artistic and elegant. Their dresses, especially those of the females, were very tasteful and ornate. Some specimens of their earthenware are still preserved and are highly creditable to their skill in that branch of industry. Among their household goods they had boxes made of split cane and other material, ingeniously wrought and ornamented; also mats for their floors. Their wearing apparel was composed partly of skins handsomely dressed and colored, and partly of a sort of woven cloth made of the fibrous bark of the mulberry tree and a certain species of wild hemp. Their finest fabrics, used by the wives and daughters of the caciques, were obtained from the bark of the young mulberry shoots beaten into small fibres, then bleached and twisted or spun into threads of a convenient size for weaving, which was done in a very simple manner by driving small stakes into the ground, stretching a warp across from one to another, then inserting the weft by using the fingers instead of a shuttle. By this tedious process they made very beautiful shawls and mantillas, with figured borders of most exquisite patterns." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They must have been very industrious, I think," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, assented her grandmother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The weavers I presume were women; but the men also seem to have been industrious, for they manufactured articles of gold, silver, and copper. None of iron, however. Some of their axes, hatchets, and weapons of war were made of copper, and they, like the Peruvians, possessed the art of imparting a temper to that metal which made it nearly equal to iron for the manufacture of edge tools. The Peruvians, it is said, used an alloy of copper and tin for such purposes; and that might perhaps be harder than brass, which is composed chiefly of copper and zinc." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Had they good houses to live in, grandma?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The religion of the Natchez resembled that of the Peruvians; they worshipped the sun as the source of light and heat, or a symbol of the divine goodness and wisdom. They believed in the immortality of the human soul and in future rewards and punishments; in the existence of a supreme and omnipotent Deity called the Great Spirit and also in an evil spirit of inferior power, who was supposed to govern the seasons and control the elements. They seem not to have been image-worshippers until the Spaniards made them such. Their government was despotic, but not tyrannical. They were ruled by their chiefs, whose authority was patriarchal, who were like popes or bishops, rather than princes, but who never abused their power." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, that isn't all, grandma, is it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "All of my part of the account, for the present at least," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You will tell us the story of the Princess Xualla, will you not?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "You could surely do it much better than I, Grandma Elsie, was the modest rejoinder;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We do," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "About a week after the death of the young chief, De Soto told Xualla she must send another guide with a party of Spaniards to her mother's habitation. She promptly and decidedly refused to do so, saying she had been justly punished once for consenting to place her poor mother in his power, and no fears for herself would ever make her do so again. She said he had made her as miserable as she could be, and now she set him at defiance. She wished she had listened to the advice of her wise counsellors and driven him away from her shores when he first came with his false and deceitful promises of peace and friendship; for she would have saved herself from that sorrow and remorse which now made her life insupportable. 'Why do you still remain in my country?' she asked. 'Are there no other lands to be robbed, no other people to be made miserable? Here there is nothing for you to do; you have taken all we had, and you can add nothing to our wretchedness. Go, coward as you are! Cease to make war on helpless women; and if you must be a villain, let your conduct prove that you are a man!'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think she was very brave to talk to him in that way, said Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did he kill her for it?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "But the one who tells the story says she did not receive such usage as she deserved. It was on the 3d day of May, 1540, that the Spaniards left Cofachiqui, compelling the princess to accompany them and requiring her to call upon her subjects to carry burdens for them from one stopping place to another. They passed through a delightful valley called Xualla, which had many groves, plantations, and pasture grounds. On the seventh day they came to a province called Chulaque, supposed to have been inhabited by a tribe of Cherokees. But before the Spaniards had reached this point Xualla had contrived to escape, assisted by two of her female slaves who were in attendance upon her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, I hope they didn't catch her again--the Spaniards, I mean," }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, replied Lucilla;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "De Soto would not allow her to be pursued." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did he and his men stay there in that beautiful valley, Lu?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No; as he could not find the gold he so coveted in Florida, he travelled on in a westerly direction till he reached the Mississippi; a hard journey through a wilderness of forests and marshes. He could nowhere find the gold he so coveted, became discouraged and worn out, was stricken with malignant fever, and died on the banks of the Mississippi in June, 1542." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A victim to the love of gold, like so many of his countrymen, sighed Grandma Elsie." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Bible tells us 'the love of money is the root of all evil,' and history repeats the lesson. The love of money led to Pizarro's wicked attack upon the Peruvians, and the conquest of that country was a source of trouble and calamity to all, or nearly all who were concerned in it. As soon as De Soto left, after the capture of Cuzco, the victors began to quarrel with each other for the spoils. Almagro provoked a war with Pizarro, was taken prisoner and strangled. Gonzalo Pizarro was beheaded by his own countrymen. Another of the brothers, Hernando, returned to Spain, where he was thrown into prison and kept there for many years. Francisco Pizarro himself fell a victim to the resentment of Almagro's soldiers. He was assaulted in his own palace, where he had just finished his dinner when the avengers entered. All his servants and guests except his half-brother, Martinez de Alcantara, instantly fled and abandoned him to his fate. It was midday when the assassins entered the palace with drawn weapons and loudly proclaiming their intention to kill the tyrant. There were upward of a thousand persons in the plaza, but no one opposed them; they merely looked coldly on, saying to each other, 'These men are going to kill the governor.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He deserved it for killing Almagro, didn't he, grandma?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I must tell you of the fate of another of Pizarro's band--the priest Vincent, or Valverde. He counselled, or consented to, many of the most enormous crimes committed by that monster of cruelty and avarice Pizarro, who, after some years of their association in crime, made him Bishop of Cuzco. In November, 1541, he (Vincent) went with a considerable number of Spaniards, who had served under Pizarro, to the island of Puna, where they were all massacred by the Indians. On that very island, about nine years before, Pizarro had butchered the people, Vincent conniving at the crime. The historian says 'the murderers slandered the Archangel Michael, by pretending that he assisted them in their bloody performance; but no angel interposed when Vincent and his fellow assassins were about to be put to death by the infidels.'" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Three days after the fort was taken Ribaut's ships were wrecked near Cape Canaveral, and he at once marched in three divisions toward Fort Caroline. When the first division came near the site of the fort they were attacked by the Spaniards, surrendered to Menendez, and were all put to death. A few days later Ribaut arrived with his party, and as Menendez pledged his word that they should be spared, they surrendered and were all murdered, Menendez killing Ribaut with his own hand. Their bodies were hung on the surrounding trees with the inscription, 'Executed, not as Frenchmen, but as Lutherans.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lutherans?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But to go on with the story. About two years after a gallant Frenchman--Dominic de Gourgues, by name--got up an expedition to avenge the massacre of his countrymen by the Spaniards at Fort Caroline. He came to Florida with three small vessels and a hundred and eighty-four men, secured the help of the natives, attacked the fort--now called by the Spaniards Fort San Mateo--and captured the entire garrison. Many of the captives were killed by the Indians, the rest De Gourgues hanged upon the trees on which Menendez had hanged the Huguenots, putting over the corpses the inscription, 'I do this, not as to Spaniards, nor as to outcasts, but as to traitors, thieves, and murderers.' His work of revenge accomplished, De Gourgues set sail for France." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, sighed little Elsie," }, { "from": "human", "value": "As we all are, responded her mother;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, said Chester;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Florida took no part in the Revolutionary War and became a refuge for many loyalists, as it was afterward for fugitive slaves. In 1783 Florida was returned to Spanish rule, Great Britain exchanging it for the Bahamas." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And when did we get it, grandma?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "In 1819, by a treaty between our country and Spain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then the fighting stopped, I suppose?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No; the Seminole wars followed, lasting from 1835 to 1842. Florida was admitted into the Union in 1845, seceded in 1861, bore her part bravely and well through the Civil War, and at its close a State Convention repealed the ordinance of secession." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So since that she has been a part of our Union like the rest of our States; hasn't she, grandma?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; a part of our own dear country--a large and beautiful State." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And probably it won't be long now till some of us, at least, will see her," }, { "from": "human", "value": "How soon will the _Dolphin_ be ready, papa?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time we are, replied the captain," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dear Max! I long for the time when he will be with us again," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I suppose by this time he knows how to manage a vessel almost as well as you do, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope so," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So the passengers may all feel very safe, I suppose," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And that being the case you are willing to be one of them, Cousin Annis, are you not?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "More than willing; glad and grateful to you and the captain for the invitation to be, as my husband is also, I know." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am neither able nor desirous to deny that, my dear, laughed Cousin Ronald." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, ha; ah, ha; um, hm! It will be my first visit to Florida, and I'm thinking we'll have a grand time of it--looking up the sites and scenes of the old histories we've been reading and chatting over." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "You are satisfied with me, father?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Entirely so, my dear boy, was the prompt and smiling rejoinder;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am entirely ready, sir, responded Max in joyful tones;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "How the girls have grown, father! and how lovely they all are! girls that any fellow might be proud to claim as his sisters--and friend. Evelyn, I suppose, would hardly let me claim her as a sister." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I don't know, laughed his father;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes? I think she might well be glad enough to do that; but to take me for a brother would not perhaps be quite so agreeable." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, your Mamma Vi objecting to having so old a daughter, we agreed to consider ourselves brother and sister; so I suppose you can consider her your aunt, if you wish." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There now, father, what a ridiculous idea!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not so very, returned his father," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The two years of absence have seemed a long time to be without a sight of your dear faces, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And it will be a delight to get home once more, won't it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Indeed it will, he responded;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, we're starting, said Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The sailors have lifted anchor and we begin to move down stream." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "It seems a long time since we have had a bit of chat together, Aunt Evelyn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aunt? she repeated." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why--why, Max, what do you mean by calling me that?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I supposed it was the proper title for my father's sister," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh! she laughed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I had nearly forgotten that bargain made with the captain so long ago. And he has told you of it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; it was in answer to a remark of mine showing that I should like to include you among my sisters. But can you hold that relationship to my father and to me at the same time?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That is a question to be carefully considered, she laughed;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, yes, indeed! it's a bargain! And now, girls, glancing from her to his sisters," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, brother Max! papa is going to take us all to Florida in a day or two, you as well as the rest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Indeed! exclaimed Max," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, continued Neddie," }, { "from": "human", "value": "You may as well know it at once, Max, Lucilla said with a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chester and I are engaged, and naturally he wants us all with him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Is it possible! exclaimed Max, giving her a look of surprise and interest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, Lu, I thought father was quite determined to keep his daughters single till they were far beyond your present age." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, she returned with a smile;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "she added with a tremble in her voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So father let him tell me--what he wanted to, and allowed us to become engaged. But that is to be all, for a year or more." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Saved your life, Lu? Tell me all about it, do, for I haven't heard the story." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You remember the anger of the burglar whom you and I testified against some years ago, and his threat to be revenged on me?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; and that in one of father's letters I was told that he had escaped from prison. And he attacked you?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; he fired at me from some bushes by the roadside, but missed, Chester, who was with me, backing our horses just in time; then they fired simultaneously at each other and the convict fell dead, and Chester terribly wounded, while I escaped unhurt. But I thought father had written you all about it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If so that letter must have missed me, said Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And Chester hasn't recovered entirely?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not quite; his lungs seem weak, but we are hoping that a visit to Florida will perfect his cure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope so indeed! I have always liked Chester and shall welcome him as a brother-in-law, since he has saved my sister's life and won her heart." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And that of her father, added the captain, coming up at that moment and laying a hand on Lucilla's shoulder while he looked down at her with eyes of love and pride." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He has proved himself worthy of the gift of her hand." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think I must have missed one of your letters, father, said Max;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, my son; I wrote you a full account of all but the engagement, leaving that to be told on your arrival here. One or more of my recent letters must have missed you." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Too bad! exclaimed Max," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And, oh, Max, but we feel it a great treat when one comes from you," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah! that's very good of you all, he returned with a pleased smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But I think we may look forward to a fine time for the next few weeks or months, as we expect to spend them together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, said his father, then asked," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Are you well up in the history of Florida, my son?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not so well as I should like to be, sir, returned Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But perhaps I can refresh my memory, and also learn something new on that subject, while we are on the way there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; we have a good supply of books in that line, which we will carry along for your benefit--and to perhaps refresh our own memories occasionally. And possibly the girls may like to recount to you some of the tales of early times in that part of our country, which have interested them of late," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Papa, can't we keep right on now to Florida?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, my son; there are several reasons why that is not practicable--matters to be attended to at home, luggage to be brought aboard the yacht, and so forth. Besides, your brother no doubt wants a sight of Woodburn before setting out upon a journey that is likely to keep us away from there for some weeks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed, father, you are right about that, said Max." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have always esteemed my Woodburn home a lovely and delightful place, and dare say I shall find it even more beautiful now than when I saw it last." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then we'll expect to hear you say so when you get there," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "That last is a question which would better be decided upon the spot, Captain Raymond said when it had been asked once or twice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There is little or nothing to hurry us, so that we may move forward, or tarry in one place or another, as suits our convenience or inclination." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We will call at Jacksonville, I suppose, father? Lucilla said inquiringly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I see it is spoken of as the travel-centre and metropolis of the State." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; and if my passengers desire to go there we will do so." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Can we go all the way in the _Dolphin_, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; I think, however, we will call at Fernandina first, as it is nearer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is on an island, is it not?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; Amelia Island, at the mouth of St. Mary's River." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There are a very great many islands on Florida's coast, I think, said Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I was looking at the map to-day and it seemed to me there were thousands." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So there are, said her father;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then we won't stop at all of them, I suppose, remarked Ned sagely;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; and not at every one of them either, answered his father, with a look of amusement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ten thousand or more stoppages would use up rather too much of our time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, indeed! laughed Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Most of them I'd rather just look at as we pass by." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We will want to see St. Augustine and other places mentioned in the history we have been reading," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Certainly, replied her father," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, papa, she answered eagerly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They named the river May, and set up a monument of stone on a little sand bank in the river and engraved the arms of France upon it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Quite correct, daughter, the captain said in a tone of pleased commendation;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I see you have paid good attention to our reading and talks on the subject, and I hope soon to reward you with a sight of the scenes of the occurrences mentioned; though of course they are greatly changed from what they were nearly four hundred years ago." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Wasn't Jacksonville formerly known by another name, captain?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, he replied," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, said Mrs. Travilla," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Papa, said Elsie," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, he answered;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "More than three hundred years, she returned after a moment's thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, that is a long, long while!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, yes, ignorance and persecution; the words came in sepulchral tones from the depths of the nearest dungeon," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, papa, cried Elsie in tones of affright, and clinging to his hand," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I don't think there is anyone in there, daughter, the captain said in reassuring tones, her Uncle Harold adding, with a slight laugh," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And if there is he must surely be pretty well used to it by this time." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, I am glad to know that, exclaimed Elsie with a sigh of relief;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, said her father," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The captain told him he was bound for Philadelphia, and that if he chose he could go there and live in safety to the end of the war and longer. So that was what he did; he stayed there till peace came, and in the meantime met and married a countrywoman of his own, a lovely and amiable lady, whom he brought back with him to Florida." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I noticed her as we passed, said Grandma Elsie;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "None now; they had two--a son and a daughter--who lived to grow up, were children to be proud of, highly educated by their father, and very fond of each other and of their parents. The son used to act as guide to visitors boarding here in the cottages, going with them on fishing expeditions and so forth. On one of those occasions he was caught in a storm and took cold; that led to consumption and he finally died. They buried him under the orange trees. His sister was so overwhelmed with grief that she fretted herself to death, and now lies by his side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, the poor mother! sighed Grandma Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And the father too," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I wish I could go on deck, he sighed on the afternoon of the second day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm so tired of staying down here where there's nothing to see." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'm sorry for that little chap. Suppose I come down there and try to get up a bit of fun for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By all means, replied the captain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We will be happy to have you do so." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Who is it, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, don't you know me?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, I don't, returned Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't know there was any boy on board, except myself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nor did I, said a rough man's voice," }, { "from": "human", "value": "What are you doing here, you young rascal? came aboard to steal, did you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nothing but my passage, sir; and I'm not doing a bit of harm," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, I guess I know who you are, laughed Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At least I'm pretty sure you're either Cousin Ronald or brother Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, who was that?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why don't you look and see?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, it doesn't seem to have been anybody, returned Ned, looking around this way and that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I'm not going to be frightened, for I just know it's one or the other of our ventriloquists. Now, good sirs, please let's have some more of it, for it's real fun." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not much, I should think, after you are in the secret," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It's some, though, said Ned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, now, I'm glad you are so easily pleased and entertained, little fellow, said the voice from the state-room door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Perhaps now the captain will let me pay my fare on the yacht by providing fun for his little son. That oldest one doesn't seem to need any; he gets enough talking with the ladies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, do you, brother Max?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, laughed Max;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hello! shouted a voice, apparently from the deck," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mr. Raymond, sir, better come up here and see that we don't run foul of that big steamer--or she of us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Never mind, father, it's a false alarm, given for Ned's amusement." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Please don't scare anybody else to amuse me, brother Max," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I don't think father was really very badly scared, laughed Lucilla;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That's right, miss; no occasion for anxiety or alarm," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you; I don't feel a particle of either," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I am sure neither you nor any of us should, under the care of two such excellent and skilful seamen," }, { "from": "human", "value": "That's right and I reckon you may feel pretty safe--all o' you," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course; who's afraid? cried the boyish voice, close at Ned's side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some of those old Spaniards were drowned in this gulf, but that was because they knew nothing about managing a vessel." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes! exclaimed Ned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "That's a mighty good thing, said the voice," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So we can, said Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And we do have good times here in the _Dolphin_. Anybody is pretty sure of good times when papa is at the head of affairs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Quite a complimentary speech from my little son," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And where are you going in this _Dolphin_?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To New Orleans, then to Berwick Bay and on through the lakes and bayous to my grandma's place--Viamede. I've been there before and it's just beautiful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then I'd like to go too, said the voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Won't you take me along?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, yes, indeed! whether you are Cousin Ronald or brother Max, I know grandma will make you welcome." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, indeed, they are both heartily welcome." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And whichever you are I'm obliged to you for making this fun for me, continued Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, what was that! as a loud whistle was heard seemingly close in his rear. He turned hastily about, then laughed as he perceived that there was no one there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was it you did that, brother Max?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Did it sound like my voice?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As much as like any other. But oh, there's the call to supper and I suppose the fun will have to stop for this time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, you can have the fun of eating instead," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Lu, said Maud," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Indeed he has, said Sidney." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And we are hoping that he and Frank will come and settle down here near us." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, no, indeed! exclaimed Lulu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I should like to live near you two, but nothing would induce me to make my home so far away from my father. And Chester has promised never to take me away from him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, I was hoping you would want to come, said Maud." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Ches is one to keep his word; so that settles it." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There are two good reasons why you should do so, said Dick in a half-jesting tone:" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dick, Dick, remonstrated Violet," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, sure enough! exclaimed Dick." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Harold, old fellow, I beg your pardon! and to make amends, should I get sick I shall certainly have you called in at once." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Which will quite make amends, returned Harold, laughing;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah! returned Dick," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I perceive that my wiser plan will be to keep well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now, dear friends and relatives, Sid and I have a communication to make. We have decided to follow the good example set us by our brother and sister--Maud and Dick--and so we expect in two or three weeks to take each other for better or for worse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think you have chosen wisely--both of you, said Grandma Elsie," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "turning to him," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, cousin; you are most kindly hospitable, Chester said with a gratified look and smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The two places are so near together that I can readily divide my time between them; which--both being so attractive--is certainly very fortunate for me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And for all of us, said Violet;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I shall hope and expect to see you all coming in every day," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, Cousin Elsie, said Maud," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The grounds are looking bewitchingly beautiful in the moonlight; suppose we take a little stroll down to the bayou." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You two go if you like, but I want to have a word or two with papa," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Well, we will not be gone long," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I have come for my dear father's good-night caresses, and to hear anything he may have to say to his eldest daughter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, that is right, he said, turning and putting an arm about her and drawing her into a close embrace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope all goes well with you, dear child. If not, your father is the very one to bring your troubles to." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, dear papa, she said;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, we have a great deal to be thankful for, he returned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But you will miss Chester, now that he has left here for Torriswood." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, not very much, she said with a happy little laugh;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And doubtless some of the time you will be there. By the way, you should give Sidney something handsome as a wedding present. You may consider what would be suitable and likely to please, consult with the other ladies, and let your father know what the decision is--that he may get the article, or supply the means." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you ever so much, father dear, she replied in grateful tones," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Spoken like my own dear, loving daughter, he said approvingly, and with a slight caress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "By the way, did Robert Johnson's bit of news make my daughter and her lover a trifle jealous that their engagement must be so long a one?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not me, papa; I am entirely willing--yes, very glad--to be subject to your orders; very loath to leave the dear home with you and pass from under your care and protection. Oh, I sometimes feel as if I could never do it. But then I say to myself, 'But I shall always be my dear father's child and we need not--we will not love each other the less because another claims a share of my affection.' Is that not so, papa?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, daughter; and I do not believe anything can ever make either one of us love the other less. But it is growing late and about time for my eldest daughter to be seeking her nest, if she wants to be up with the birds in the morning and ready to share a stroll with her father through these beautiful grounds before breakfast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, sir; but, if you are willing, I should like to wait for Evelyn. She and Max will be in presently, I think. Papa, I do think they have begun to be lovers, and I am glad; for I should dearly love to have Eva for a sister." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I should not object to having her for a daughter, returned the captain, with a pleased little laugh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you are not mistaken, so far as Max is concerned. He asked me to-day if I were willing that he should try to win the dear girl, and I told him most decidedly so; that I heartily wished him success in his wooing. Though, as in your case, I think marriage would better be deferred for a year or two." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, Max would be quite as much too young for a bridegroom as I for a bride, she said with a slight and amused laugh;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I have in their love and willingness to be guided by me, the captain responded in a tone of gratification." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You may wait for Evelyn. I think she and Max will be in presently. Ah, yes; see they are turning this way now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, such a beautiful night as it is! exclaimed Evelyn," }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, said Max," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; but it is very pleasant to be able to go from one section to another as the seasons change, said Eva." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think we are very fortunate people in being able to do it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, returned Max," }, { "from": "human", "value": "and he turned to her as with sudden determination," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I--I think I can never again be happy away from you. I love you and want you for my own. You have said you would like to be my father's daughter, and I can make you that if you will only let me. Say, dearest, oh, say that you will let me--that you will be mine--my own dear little wife." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Max, oh, Max, she answered in low, trembling tones," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I--I am afraid you don't know me quite as I am--that you would be disappointed--would repent of having said what you have." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Never, never! if you will only say yes; if you will only promise to be mine--my own love, my own dear little wife." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I have won a new daughter for you, father, and a dear sweet wife for myself. At least she has promised to be both to us one of these days." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, I am well pleased, the captain said, taking Eva's hand in his, and bending down to give her a fatherly caress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have always felt that I should like to take her into my family and do a father's part by her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, captain, you are very, very kind, returned Eva, low and feelingly;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And oh, Eva, I shall be so glad to have you really my sister! exclaimed Lucilla, giving her friend a warm embrace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Max, you dear fellow, I'm ever so glad and so much obliged to you." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You needn't to be, sis. Eva is the one deserving of thanks for accepting one so little worthy of her as this sailor brother of yours," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, we will give her all the credit, said the captain;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Eva, Lucilla exclaimed, holding her friend in a loving embrace," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am so glad, so very, very glad that we are to be sisters. And Max I am sure will make you a good, kind husband. He has always been the best and dearest of brothers to me--as well as to Grace and the little ones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I know it, said Evelyn softly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I know too that your father has always been the best and kindest of husbands and that Max is very much like him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And you love Max?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "How could I help it? asked Evelyn, blushing as she spoke." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I thought it was as a dear brother I cared for him, till--till he asked me to--to be his wife; but then I knew better. Oh, it was so sweet to learn that he loved me so! and I am so happy! I am not the lonely girl I was this morning--fatherless and motherless and without brother or sister. Oh, I have them all now--except the mother, she added with a slight laugh--" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; as she is to be a mother to Max, Gracie, and me. But with such a father as ours one could do pretty well without a mother. Don't you think so?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; he seems to be father and mother both to those of his children who have lost their mother." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He is indeed. But now I must obey his last order by getting to bed as quickly as I can." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I, too, laughed Evelyn;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, daughter, he said, holding out his hand with a welcoming smile," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As I feel, papa, she returned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; entirely so. It is a lovely morning and I think we will find a stroll along the bank of the bayou very enjoyable. However, I want you to eat a bit of something first; and here is Aunt Phillis with oranges prepared in the usual way for an early morning lunch," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, Massa Captain, and I hopes you, sah, and Miss Lu kin eat what's heah; dere's plenty moah for de res' ob de folks when dey gets out o' dere beds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, said the captain, helping Lucilla and himself," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father, Lucilla said as they set off across the lawn," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am so pleased that Max and Eva are engaged. I should prefer her for a sister-in-law to anyone else; for I have always loved her dearly since we first met." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I can say the same; she is a dear girl, and Max could have done nothing to please me better," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And she loves you, father, returned Lucilla, smiling up into his eyes;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah? although I know you to be guilty of the very same thing yourself," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, but having been born your child, how can I help it? she asked with a happy little laugh. Then went on," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father, I've been thinking how it would do for you to make that house you have been talking of building near your own, big enough for two families--Max's and Eva's, Chester's and mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Perhaps it might do, he answered pleasantly," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, sir, she returned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, I am glad I do not have to leave my sweet home in my father's house for months or maybe years yet. I do so love to be with you that I don't know how I can ever feel willing to leave you; even for Chester, whom I do really love very dearly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I shall find it very hard to have you leave me, he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But we expect to be near enough to see almost as much of each other as we do now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, papa, that's the pleasant part of it, she said with a joyous look; then went on," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Chester has been talking to me about plans for the house, but I tell him that, as you said just now, it is hardly time to think about them yet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There would be no harm in doing so, however, her father said;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, father dear, she said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do think you are just the kindest father ever anyone had." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have no objection to your thinking so, he returned with a pleased smile; then went on to speak of some plans for the building that had occurred to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We will examine the plans, he said," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, papa; how good and kind you are to me! Oh, I wish I had been a better daughter to you--never wilful or disobedient." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dear child, you are a great comfort to me and have been for years past," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "My darling! he said, low and tenderly, putting his arm about her and giving her an ardent kiss," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, how lovely! she exclaimed, looking at it and then lifting to his face eyes filled with love and joy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is very beautiful, dear Max, valuable for that reason, but still more for being the emblem of your dear love--love that makes me the happiest girl in the land." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As yours makes me the happiest man. Ah, Eva dear, I am not worthy of you." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, she laughed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shall take your opinion on most subjects, but not on that. Here comes your father and Lu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Good-morning, they said, coming up the steps, the captain adding in jesting tones," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, Max, my son, you seem to be making an early return to the business begun yesterday." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And something more, captain, Eva said, displaying his gift." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Is it not lovely?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, beautiful!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As handsome a diamond as ever I saw, remarked the captain, examining it critically;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he added with a smile, and imprinting a kiss upon the small white hand which wore the ring." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shall we join the others in the parlor now? and will you let Max tell them of his good fortune? You will neither of you, surely, wish to keep it a secret from friends so near and dear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do not, said Max;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think your--our father's opinions are always right, Max," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Will you go in first, father? you and Lu--and we will follow," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good-morning to you all, friends and relatives, was his cheerful-toned and smiling address as he entered the room," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope you are all well and in good spirits." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good-morning, Grandma Elsie. I want to introduce to you my future wife. For this dear girl has, to my great joy, promised to become that one of these days." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah! is that so, Max? I know of nothing that could please me better," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, Eva and Max! how glad I am! for I am sure you were made for each other, and will be very happy together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And are you willing now to let me be the captain's daughter?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; seeing that Max calls me Mamma Vi, and you are really younger than he," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "You seem likely to have a rapid increase in your family, captain," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Some time hence, returned the captain pleasantly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I consider them all young enough to wait a little, and they are dutifully willing to do as I desire." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As they certainly should be, considering what a good and kind father you are, sir, and how young they are." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And how pleasant are the days of courtship, added Mr. Lilburn;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And how wise as well as kind our father is, said Max, giving the captain an ardently appreciative look and smile;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That is true, said Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think no one ever had a better father than yours, Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And certainly no one had a more appreciative wife or children than I, remarked Captain Raymond, with a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We seem to have formed a mutual admiration society this morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Surely the very best kind of society for families to form among themselves," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I like the way our young people are pairing off, remarked Mr. Dinsmore;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, sir, replied Mrs. Travilla," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have been thinking of that, but have not decided upon any particular article yet. I suppose our better plan will be to buy in New Orleans." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I think so. And it will be well for us to have a consultation on the subject, in order to avoid giving duplicates." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A very good idea, grandpa, said Violet," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I think it would be wise for us all to agree as to what each one shall give, so that there will be no duplicates," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, said Violet," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Very good, said Maud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And Sidney wanted me to consult with you older ladies in regard to the material of her wedding dress--whether it should be silk or satin; and about the veil. They are to be married in the morning, out under the orange trees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, that will be lovely," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I think so; and it will allow plenty of room, continued Maud;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I like that, said Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As to the wedding-dress question--suppose we send to New Orleans for samples, let Sidney choose from them and order the quantity she wants?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That strikes me as a very good idea, said Chester;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, Chester, you and I will both insist upon being allowed our rights this time, laughed Dick;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And between you, and with the other relatives to help, Sidney will fare well, I hope and believe," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chester, said Lucilla in a low aside," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I want your help in choosing my gift for your sister. I have the greatest confidence in your judgment and taste." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, dearest, he returned with a pleased smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shall be very glad to give my opinion for what it is worth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I presume you have sent or will promptly send word to Frank that his sister is about to marry?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We have written, replied Dick," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do not quite despair of getting him here in season, remarked Chester." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think we will hear of his whereabouts in time to send him a telegram." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Do they intend to go to housekeeping?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is hardly decided yet, replied Maud." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We are trying to persuade them that it will be best for us all to continue to be one family. I think that will be the way for a time at least; and when we tire of that we can easily occupy the house as two families. It is large enough and so planned that it can readily be used in that way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A very good thing, remarked Mr. Embury." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think you will be the more likely to agree if you do not feel that you are shut up to the necessity of remaining one family." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You have hardly sent out your invitations yet?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only to the more distant relatives, replied Maud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course we cannot expect that they will all come, but we did not want to neglect any of them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We must arrange to accommodate them if they should come, said Molly," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The _Dolphin_ and I are at the service of any one--or any number--who would like to go." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Annis, she said, turning to her cousin," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, yes; if you want us I think we can," }, { "from": "human", "value": "If you wish it, my dear, he answered pleasantly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I always enjoy being with the cousins." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now, my daughters, Lucilla and Grace, if you have any preparations to make for your trip to New Orleans, my advice is that you attend to them at once," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, sir, they both returned, making prompt movement to obey; Lucilla adding," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And what are your directions to me, Captain Raymond? or am I to be left entirely to my own devices?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think my wife is wise enough to be safely so left, he replied in his usual pleasant tones, and with a look of fond appreciation;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "And now I think of it, perhaps it might be well to consult with them in regard to some matters," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Have not you some preparations to make also, Elsie?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Very little, she answered with a smile;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What is it, Uncle Joe?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ise come to ax a favor, mistiss, he replied, bowing low." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ole Aunt Silvy she mighty porely--mos' likely gwine die befo' many days--an' she doan pear to feel pow'ful sure ob de road for to git to de bes' place on de furder side ob de river. She says Miss Elsie knows da way and maybe she come and 'struct her how to find it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Indeed I shall be very glad if I can help her to find it, Elsie answered with emotion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I will go with you at once. Then turning to her son," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Harold, she said," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Uncle Joe reports a woman at the quarter as very ill; will you go down there with me and see if your medical skill can give her any relief?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Certainly, mother dear;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, mistiss, she cried as they entered," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "finishing up with the query," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Is I gwine die dis day, suh?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think not, he replied," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dat's what I gwine do when mistiss tell me how," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I will try to make the way plain to you, that lady returned in compassionate tones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is just to come to the Lord Jesus confessing that you are a helpless, undone sinner and asking him to help you--to take away the love of sinning and wash you in his own precious blood. The Bible tells us 'He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him.' And he says, 'Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.' So that if you come, truly seeking him with all your heart--desiring to be saved, not only from eternal death but from sin and the love of it--he will hear and save you." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Won' you pray de good Lawd for dis ole darky, mistiss? pleaded the woman." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You knows bes' how to say de words, an' dis chile foller you in her heart." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Dis chile am berry much 'bliged, mistiss, she said, when Mrs. Travilla had resumed her seat by the bedside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I t'ink de good Lawd hear dat prayer an open de gate ob heaben to ole Silvy when she git dar." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope so indeed, Mrs. Travilla replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Put all your trust in Jesus and you will be safe; for he died to save sinners such as you and I. We cannot do anything to save ourselves, but to all who come to him he gives salvation without money and without price. Don't think you can do anything to earn it; it is his free gift." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But de Lawd's chillens got to be good, mistiss, aint dey?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; they are not his children if they do not try to know and do all his holy will. Jesus said, 'If ye love me, keep my commandments.' 'Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.' We have no right to consider ourselves Christians if we do not try earnestly to keep all his commands, and do all his holy will." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "You do not think Aunt Silvy really a dying woman, Harold?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, mamma; I shall not be surprised if she lives for years yet, Harold answered cheerily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No doubt she is suffering, but I think medicine, rest, and suitable food will relieve her and she will probably be about again in a week or two. But preparation for death and eternity can do her no harm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, certainly; to become truly a Christian must add to the happiness--as well as safety--of anyone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And you have brought that happiness to many a one, my dear mother, Harold said, giving her a tenderly affectionate look." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "How often in thinking of you I recall those words of the prophet Daniel, 'And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "she said with emotion." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, my son, make it the business of your life to do that; to help to the healing of souls--the immortal part--even more than that of the frail bodies which must soon die." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, mother, he said with emotion," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do try constantly to do that; and it is a great comfort and help to me to know that my dear mother is often asking for me help from on high." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, she said;" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, replied his mother," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, indeed! he said," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I expect to find it so, she returned," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Chester, you know you have promised to advise me what to give to Sidney," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You dear girl! so I will and I make that same request of you, for I am sure you know far more about such matters than I do," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Quite a mistake, Mr. Dinsmore, she laughed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I understood you intended to give some part of the trousseau--perhaps the wedding dress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; that and pretty much all the rest of it. And I am sure your help will be invaluable in the choice of the various articles." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, she said, with a pleased laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is very nice to have you think so highly of my judgment and taste; but I hope you will let Grandma Elsie and Mamma Vi and Eva assist in the selection." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Certainly, if you wish it, but I do not promise to let their opinions have as much weight with me as yours." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, you needn't, she returned merrily;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah! but she won't have the chance. By the way, your father has a good deal of taste in the line of ladies' dress, has he not?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think so, she returned with a pleased smile;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You are very fond of your father," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Indeed I am, she returned in an earnest tone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I believe I give him all the love that should have been divided between him and my mother, had she lived. Mamma Vi calls him my idol; but I don't think I make him quite that. He has at least one rival in my affection," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I may guess who that is, may I, dearest?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Grandma, will it be disturbing if I talk to you and ask some questions?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, dear child, not at all, was the kindly-spoken reply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am always glad to help my dear little grandchildren to information when it is in my power. Here is an empty chair on each side of me. Draw them up closely, you and Ned, and seat yourselves and then I hope we can have a nice talk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, ma'am; and it will be a pleasant rest too, returned the little girl, as she and her brother followed the directions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Papa told me once that the meaning of the word Sabbath is rest. But what I wanted particularly to ask about this time, grandma, is the Feast of the Passover. Will you please tell us why it was kept and why they called it that?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Surely, my dear children, you have heard the story of the institution of that feast of the Jews called the Passover! said Grandma Elsie in some surprise." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the twelfth chapter of Exodus there is a full account of its institution. Every householder in Israel was to take a lamb of a year old, without blemish; and at even on the 14th day of the month it was to be slain. The householder was then to take of the blood of the lamb and sprinkle the door-posts of his house. That was to be a sign to the destroying angel, who was to slay all the firstborn of the Egyptians that night, not to enter and slay here. Then they were to roast the flesh of the lamb and eat it that night with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. The lives of the Israelites were saved by the angel passing over, instead of entering the house to destroy life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, grandma, I understand, said the little girl." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But why is Christ called our passover? You know the text--'for even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You know, said her grandmother," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, grandma, for telling me, Elsie said gratefully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And the Jews kept that feast every year from that time till the time of Christ, I suppose. And he kept it too. Wasn't it at that feast that he instituted what we call the Lord's Supper?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, replied her grandmother;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, grandma, how good and kind he was to shed his blood for us! To die that dreadful, dreadful death of the cross that we might go to heaven! exclaimed the little girl with tears in her sweet blue eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do love him for it, and I want to be his servant, doing everything he would have me do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That is as we all should feel, dear child," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do, grandma, said Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Do you think the Lord Jesus takes notice that we love him and want to do as he tells us?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, Neddie dear, I am quite sure of it, replied his grandmother." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Psalmist says, 'Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, oh, Lord, thou knowest it altogether.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is so good, grandma, that God doesn't think us not worth noticing, said Elsie;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is indeed good, my child, and we are sure of it. Jesus said, 'Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think God was very good to give us our father and mother and grandma; brother Max too and our nice sisters and--and all the rest of the folks," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am very glad you appreciate all those blessings, my little son," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, mamma. And oh, mamma! can't Elsie and I go along with the rest of you to New Orleans to-morrow?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think so, she replied with a smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am pretty sure your father will say yes if you ask him. Then he will have all his children along, and that is what he likes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He and Uncle Harold went down to the quarter, said Elsie," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Papa says, yes we may. Oh, Elsie, aren't you glad?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I always like to be with papa and mamma and grandma, and it's ever so pleasant to be on our yacht." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You think it takes the two of us, do you?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, papa; I know you could do it all by your own self, returned Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But when brother Max is there you don't have to take the trouble to mind how things are going all the time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, that's a fact, returned his father, with a pleased laugh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Brother Max can be trusted, and knows how to manage that large vessel quite as well as papa does. But what will you and Elsie do while we older people are shopping?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, my dear, there will be so many of us that we will hardly all want to go at once, remarked Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think there will always be someone willing to stay with the little folks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, mamma, said Grace, who had drawn near," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shall. Shopping is apt to tire me a good deal, and I think I shall prefer to spend the most of the time on the _Dolphin_." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, daughter, it will certainly be better for you, her father said, giving her an appreciative smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You can go when you wish and feel able, and keep quiet and rest when you will. But we will leave the rest of our talk about the trip until to-morrow, choosing for the present some subject better suited to the sacredness of the day. I will now hear the texts which my children have got ready to recite to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, sir, said Grace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shall I go and tell Max and Lu that you are ready?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "You may," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, I have quite a class," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I for my part esteem it a privilege to be permitted to make one of the number, captain," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As we all do, I think," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you both, said the captain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Our principal subject to-day is grace; God's grace to us. Can you give me a text that teaches it, Chester?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, sir. Paul says in his epistle to the Ephesians, 'That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have two texts that seem to go well together, said Violet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The first is in Proverbs, 'Surely he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.' The other is in James, 'But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud but giveth grace unto the humble.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have a little one, papa, said his daughter Elsie:" }, { "from": "human", "value": "This is mine and it is short too, said Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, my boy, that is a short verse, but long enough if you will be careful to put it in practice," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Ches, but you are good to me! she exclaimed with glad tears in her eyes;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And when you have Cousin Bob added to all the rest, how do you suppose you are going to stand it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, as the gifts are partly to him, he will help me to stand it," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'll do my best," }, { "from": "human", "value": "You must not allow yourselves to be overwhelmed yet, remarked Mr. Embury," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I'll warrant my sister Betty will remember my bride with something worth while," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, she will; I haven't a doubt of it, said Mrs. Embury;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course it will, said Dick." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sister Betty was always a generous soul, taking delight in giving." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Being related to you both, Bob and Sid, I want to give you something worth while. What would you like it to be?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, never mind, Isa, exclaimed Dr. Johnson, jocosely," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, laughed Isa;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, by the way, why shouldn't we have a triple wedding? exclaimed Maud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think it would be just lovely! It struck me so when I heard yesterday of the engagement of Max and Eva." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Don't you think it would make a pretty wedding, Cousin Vi?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I dare say it would, Maud, replied Mrs. Raymond," }, { "from": "human", "value": "she added with playful look and tone," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, well, I hardly expected to be able to bring it about, returned Maud," }, { "from": "human", "value": "So it would, said Mrs. Embury;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, said Cousin Ronald," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wouldn't you be willing to make haste quickly in this instance, dearest?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, she returned with a saucy smile," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I find courting times too pleasant to be willing to cut them short; even if father would let me; and I know he would not." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And he won't let the other couple; which is good, since misery loves company." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, is courting me such hard work?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Delightful work, but taking you for my very own would be still better." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, but you see that Captain Raymond considers me one of the little girls who are still too young to leave their fathers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, you know I am pledged never to take you away from him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I am too happy in the knowledge of that ever to forget it. But do you know I for one should not fancy being married along with other couples--one ceremony serving for all. I should hardly feel sure the thing had been thoroughly and rightly done." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shouldn't you? laughed Chester." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, then, we will have the minister and ceremony all to ourselves whenever we do have it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hope to be here again to-morrow pretty soon after breakfast, he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I grudge every hour spent away from your side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Really, you flatter me, she laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I doubt if anybody else appreciates my society so highly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You are probably mistaken as to that, he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am quite aware that I am not your only admirer, and I feel highly flattered by your preference for me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Do you? she laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, I think it would not be prudent to tell you how great it is--if I could. Good-night," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, he is very much in love, and finds it hard to wait, said the captain;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am in no hurry, papa, said Lucilla," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do so love to be with you and under your care--and authority," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, daughter dear, but do you expect to escape entirely from that last when you marry?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, sir; and I don't want to. I really do love to be directed and controlled by you--my own dear father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think no man ever had a dearer child than this one of mine," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What do you think of Maud's proposition, Eva?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It seems hardly worth while to think about it at all, Max, she replied in a mirthful tone;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have no fear of that last so far as my feelings are concerned, dearest, and I hope you have none," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not the slightest, she hastened to reply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think we know each other too thoroughly to indulge any such doubts and fears. Still, as I have great faith in your father's wisdom, and courting times are not by any means unpleasant, I feel in no haste to bring them to an end. You make such a delightful lover, Max, that the only thing I feel in a hurry about is the right to call the dear captain father." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, I don't wonder that you are in haste for that, returned Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I should be sorry indeed not to have that right. He is a father to love and to be proud of." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He is indeed, she responded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I fell in love with him at first sight and have loved him more and more ever since; for the better one knows him the more admirable and lovable he seems." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think that is true, said Max." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am very proud of my father and earnestly desire to have him proud of me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Which he evidently is, returned Eva," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, laughed Max; then added more gravely," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hope I may never do anything to disgrace him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am sure you never will, returned Eva in a tone that seemed to say such a thing could not be possible." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Had we not better retrace our steps to the house now?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Probably, said Max." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I presume father would say I ought not to deprive you of your beauty sleep. But these private walks and chats are so delightful to me that I am apt to be selfish about prolonging them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And your experience on shipboard has accustomed you to late hours, I suppose?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; to rather irregular times of sleeping and waking. A matter of small importance, however, when one gets used to it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But there would be the rub with me, she laughed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Cousin Ronald, can't you make some fun for us? asked Ned at the breakfast table the next morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We haven't had any of your kind since we came here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, and what of that, youngster? must you live on fun all the time?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh! who are you? and how did you come in here? he asked, turning half round in his chair, in the effort to see the speaker." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, pshaw! you're nobody. Was it you, Cousin Ronald? or was it brother Max?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Polite little boys do not call gentlemen nobodies," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I didn't mean to, said Ned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "That bird you are eating looks good, said the same voice;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, laughed Ned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, a bite would be better than no breakfast at all; and somebody might give me one of those nice-looking rolls." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm sure of it if you'll come to the table and show yourself," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Here I am then," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, are you? returned Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, help yourself. You can have anything you choose to take." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now, Ned, do you call that polite? laughed Lucilla." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As you invited him to the table you surely ought to help him to what he has asked for." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I see he's well helped already and oughtn't to be asking for more till he gets that eaten up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, you know too much, young man, laughed Max." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It isn't worth while for Cousin Ronald and me to waste our talents upon you." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, it is, Brother Max, said the little fellow," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, Cousin Ronald, exclaimed Elsie," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why not ask Max instead of me?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh! cried the little girl," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd like to have both of you do it. It's more fun with two than with only one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And it might be well to consult cousins Maud and Dick about it, suggested Grandma Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You can do so to-day, as we are all invited to take lunch at Torriswood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Are we? oh, that's nice! exclaimed Elsie, smiling brightly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You will let us go, papa, won't you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I expect to take you there." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And if we all go Cousin Ronald and Max might make some fun for us there. I guess the Torriswood folks would like it," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But might not you grow tired--having so much of it?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, indeed! cried the little fellow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It's too much fun for anybody to get tired of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Any little chap like you, perhaps," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pooh! I'm not so very little now," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not too little to talk a good deal," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This is a lovely morning, remarked Dr. Harold," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And there are riding horses and conveyances in plenty for any who prefer to use them," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I should like to try it too;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cousin Ronald and brother Max, can't we have some fun there to-day, as well as at the wedding time?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Possibly, bit laddie, returned the old gentleman pleasantly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If I am not too auld, your good brother is no' too young." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But you are the more expert of the two, sir, said Max;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, well, we'll see when the time comes, responded the old gentleman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I like well to please the bit laddie, if it can be done without vexing or disturbing anybody else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I don't think it can do that, observed Ned wisely," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; when it does not annoy or weary anyone else," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Will Chester be over here this morning, Lu?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He expected to when he went away last night, was the reply." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But possibly he may not come if he hears that we are to go there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I think he is too much a man of his word to be hindered by that," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maud told me you were all coming over to lunch with her, he said," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You are right there, said Harold." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You know that as your physician I have prescribed a good deal of outdoor exercise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I have been taking the prescription, too, and I find it beneficial; especially when I am so fortunate as to secure pleasant company." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then, as the walk is a long one, I would suggest that we start as soon as may suit the convenience of the ladies," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I should have called upon you before now, but I know poor relations are not apt to prove welcome visitors." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But I had thought you were making your home at Viamede," }, { "from": "human", "value": "No; not since Dick and Bob removed to Torriswood. I couldn't think of living on there alone; so came here to Isa, she being my nearest of kin in this part of the world." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, said Virginia;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, Virgie, exclaimed Isadore in surprise," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am sure you have been invited there more than once since you have been here." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, I knew it was only a duty invitation and they didn't really want me; so I didn't go. I have a little more sense than to impose my company upon people who don't really want it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shouldn't think anybody would while you show such an ugly temper," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Cousin Dick, wouldn't it be right nice to have a little fun?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fun, Neddie? Why, certainly, my boy; fun is often quite beneficial to the health. But how shall we manage it? have you a good joke for us?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, sir, said Ned," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is certainly very amusing sometimes, and I see no objection if our friends are willing to favor us with some specimens of their skill," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh! exclaimed Maud," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Probably, returned her husband," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Decidedly so, I should say, said Max." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would be better to reserve that entertainment for that time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But surely it would do no harm to give us a few examples of your skill to-day, when the servants are out of the room," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, certainly not, if anything worth while could be thought of, said Max;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not to me, brother Max, exclaimed Ned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And the funny things you and Cousin Ronald seem to make invisible folks say make other people laugh as well as me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And laughter is helpful to digestion, said a strange voice, apparently speaking from the doorway." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But should folks digest too well these doctors might find very little to do. So it is not to be wondered at if they object to letting much fun be made." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But the doctors haven't objected, laughed Dr. Percival," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I presume that's what the little fellow that wants the fun has been doing, said the voice;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Papa, am I so very fat?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "None too fat to suit my taste, my son," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And you wouldn't want to be a bag of bones, would you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, returned Ned sturdily," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'd a great deal rather be fat; bones are ugly things any way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good to cover up with fat, but very necessary underneath it, said the voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You couldn't stand or walk if you had no bones." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No; to be sure not; though I never thought about it before, returned Ned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Some ugly things are worth more, after all, than some pretty ones." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Very true, said the voice;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Is it you talking, Cousin Ronald, or is it brother Max?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No matter which, laddie, said the old gentleman;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes, maybe it was! I couldn't tell," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Don't, oh, don't! seemed to come from it in a terrified scream." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'm all right. No need of a surgeon's knife." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, Cousin Ronald, that reminds me of very old times, when I was a little child," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, yes! he said," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I remember now that I was near depriving you of your share of the fowl when breakfasting one morning at your father's hospitable board. Have you not yet forgiven that act of indiscretion?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Indeed, yes; fully and freely long ago. But it was really nothing to forgive--your intention having been to afford amusement to us all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Neddie, shall I help you? are you willing to eat of a fowl that can scream out so much like a human creature?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, Cousin Doctor; 'cause I know just how he did it," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I want to have two or three little flower girls, said Sidney;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I highly approve if we can get the other two here in season," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then for my maid of honor I must have one of you older girls, continued Sidney." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Perhaps I'll want all three. I don't know yet how many groomsmen Robert is going to have." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cousin Harold and my friend Max, if they will serve," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, Bob, said Harold;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Are you expecting to take a trip?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; we talk of going to the Bahamas, said Robert." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is said to be a delightful winter resort and neither of us has ever been there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then I think you will be likely to enjoy your visit there greatly," }, { "from": "human", "value": "So we think, said Robert." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But now about groomsmen; I'd like to add your brother Herbert and Sidney's brother Frank if we can get them here, and they are willing to serve. Chester won't, because Lu must not be a bridesmaid, having served twice or thrice already in that capacity--and you know the old saying, 'Three times a bridesmaid never a bride.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have little doubt of the willingness of the lads if they are here in season, returned Harold;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But Frank can be spared from his, I suppose?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; for a short time, I think," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Come, let us all go out on the lawn and consult in regard to the best place for having the arch made under which our bridal party are to stand," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "It is likely to be a large company, said Maud," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; I should think so, said Grandma Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Your lawn is large and lovely. I am very glad, Dick, that you secured so beautiful a place." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you, cousin, he returned," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think I was fortunate in getting it; as Maud does too. She likes it well." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you prefer it to Viamede?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only because it is my own, he answered with a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One could not find a lovelier place than Viamede." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But you lost the housekeeping of your cousin Virginia by making the change," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hardly! laughed Dick;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She seems to me much the more agreeable of the two," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; Isa is a lovely woman. And Virginia has her good qualities, too." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Does Sidney's evident happiness in the near approach of her marriage make my little girl unhappy and discontented with her father's decision in regard to hers?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, no, papa; no indeed! she exclaimed with a low, happy laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Have you forgotten, or don't you know yet, how dearly that same little girl loves to be with you?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Really, I believe she does, he said, caressing her with tenderness," }, { "from": "human", "value": "You dear, kind father! she said in response." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I could wish to be always a child if so I might be always with you." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, daughter, we may hope for many years together in this world and a blessed eternity together in heaven." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, papa, there is great happiness in that thought. Oh, I am glad and thankful that God gave me a Christian father." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I that I have every reason to believe that my dear eldest daughter has learned to know and love him. To belong to Christ is better than to have the wealth of the world. Riches take to themselves wings and fly away; but he has said, 'I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Such a sweet, precious promise, father!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes; it may well relieve us from care and anxiety about the future; especially as taken in connection with that other precious promise, 'As thy days, so shall thy strength be.'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Don't you think, papa, that if we always remembered and fully believed the promises of God's word we might--we should be happy under all circumstances?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I do indeed, he said emphatically." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We all need to pray as the disciples did, 'Lord increase our faith,' for 'without faith it is impossible to please him.'" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What you 'bout, all you folks? Polly wants some breakfast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, where is the bird? asked several voices in tones of surprise. But hardly had the question been asked when another parrot seemed to speak from a table near that at which the bridal party sat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Polly's hungry. Poor old Polly--poor old soul!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Is that so, Polly? Then just help yourself," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Polly wants her coffee. Poor old Polly, poor old soul!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Come on, my merry men, and let us get our share of this grand wedding feast." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tramps about! and bold ones they must be!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Really I hope they are not going to make any trouble! cried another." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I fear we have no weapons of defence among us; and if we had I for one would be loath to turn a wedding feast into a fight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hark! hark! cried another as the notes of a bugle came floating on the breeze, the next minute accompanied by what seemed to be the sound of a drum and fife playing a national air," }, { "from": "human", "value": "as another sound met the ear," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, yes, it certainly must be troops. But who or what can have called them out?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, sit down and let us go on with our breakfast, expostulated still another." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course they are American troops on some trifling errand in the neighborhood and not going to interfere with us. There! the music has stopped and I don't hear their tramp either. Dr. Percival, turning in his host's direction and raising his voice," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I haven't heard of any troops about, but am quite sure they will not interfere with us, returned the doctor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Please, friends, don't let it disturb you at all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Cousin Ronald and brother Max, do some more! he entreated in a subdued, but urgent tone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Folks do believe it's real soldiers and it's such fun to see how they look and talk about it." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There, my little son, I think that ought to satisfy you for the present. Let our gentlemen and everybody else have their breakfast in peace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Good advice, Cousin Vi, said Mr. Lilburn," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Really I don't understand this at all, remarked a lady seated at the same table with the gentleman who had called to Dr. Percival;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I begin to have a very strong suspicion that ventriloquism is responsible for it all, returned the gentleman with a smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Did you not hear at the time of the marriage of Dr. Johnson's sister that a ventriloquist was present and made rare sport for the guests?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, I think I did and that he was one of the relatives. I presume he is here now and responsible for these strange sounds. But, she added thoughtfully," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Perhaps the talent runs in the family and there is more than one here possessing it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, yes, that must be it, remarked another guest, nodding wisely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I presume it is in the family, and what sport it must make for them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But what has become of those tramps--the merry men who were going to claim a share of this feast?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Perhaps they have joined the troops, laughed another." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But hark! they are at it again, as a shrill whistle once more came floating on the breeze from the same direction as before, followed by the words," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Come on, my merry men; let us make haste ere all the best of the viands have disappeared down the throats of the fellows already there." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "The days of Robin Hood and his merry men are over lang syne; and this is no' the country for ony sic doin's. If we want a share o' the grand feast we maun ask it like decent, honest folk, tendering payment if that wad no' be considered an insult by the host an' hostess." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Come on, friends, and let me help you to a share of the eatables; we have enough and to spare, and you will be heartily welcome." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thanks, sir, said the voice;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Very well; manage it to suit yourselves," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well, comrades, let us sit down here under the trees and wait for our turn." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Catch it who can, and you will be the first to follow me into wedded happiness." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Star-Spangled Banner," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "They have fared well, said Mrs. Betty Norton, Dr. Robert's sister," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am so glad for them both. I'm fond of my brother Bob, and well pleased with the match he has made. And not less so with Dick's," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, Betty, said Maud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I was well pleased with the relationship we held to each other before, and am glad it has been made nearer. Though at first--when Dick proposed--I was afraid it--the relationship--ought to be a bar to our union. However, he said it was not near enough for that, and as he is a good physician I supposed he knew--so did not say him nay," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, don't you wish you had?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have serious objections to being questioned too closely, she said laughingly;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, I always understood it was the woman's privilege to be that, he laughed;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, how absurd in you! she exclaimed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With such a husband as mine it would be utterly impossible for me to be the better half." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But it is quite the thing for each to think the other is," }, { "from": "human", "value": "A state of feeling that is certain to make both very happy," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As you and I know by experience," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, said her cousin Betty," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But needn't plume yourself very much on that discovery, Cousin Betty, laughed Lucilla," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think everybody makes it who is with them for even a day or two." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And his children are not much, if at all, behind his wife in love for him, or behind him in love for her," }, { "from": "human", "value": "All doing their best to fill him with conceit, he said, returning the smile, but with a warning shake of the head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Where are Elsie and Ned? he asked, adding," }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is about time we were returning home--to Viamede." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, said Violet," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I will find them, papa and mamma," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What is it? they asked as they drew near," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes; so papa and mamma think; and we must always do what they say, you know." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed! answered Elsie," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "We've been having an elegant time and it's just lovely here at Torriswood, said little Elsie Embury," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, yes! aren't you glad?" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "It was right odd that Eva and Lu should have caught that bridal bouquet together, laughed Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "My dear, does it not make you tremble with apprehension lest those two weddings should take place somewhat sooner than you wish?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I cannot say that I am greatly alarmed, the captain returned pleasantly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have too much confidence in the affection and desire to please their father of my eldest son and daughter, to greatly fear that they will disregard my wishes and opinion in reference to that, or anything else indeed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And I feel very sure that your confidence is not misplaced, said Mrs. Travilla." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Also I think you are wise in wishing them--young as they are--to defer marriage for a few years." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But I could see, she added with playful look and tone," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, Captain Raymond said laughingly," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "It was capitally done, girls, laughed Max," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, I am sure I wish it may, said Chester." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope you will not object, Lu?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I don't believe it would make a particle of difference in the result whether I did or not, she laughed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If you knew father as well as I do you would know that he does not often retreat from a position that he has once taken. And he is not superstitious enough to pay any attention to such an omen as we have had to-day. Nor would I wish him to, as I have the greatest confidence in his wisdom and his love for his children." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To all of which I add an unqualified assent, said Max heartily." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My father's opinion on almost any subject has far more weight with me than that of any other man." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "They seem to be very merry over yonder, remarked Mrs. Embury, with a smiling glance at that particular group." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It does me good to see Dick take a little relaxation--he is usually so busy in the practice of his profession." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, said Grandma Elsie," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As is that between the captain and Violet, added her cousin Annis." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I thought her young for him when they married, but I never saw a more attached couple. They make no display of it before people, but no close observer could be with them long without becoming convinced of the fact." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That is so, I think, said Mrs. Leland." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The captain is a fond father, but he has told Vi more than once that to lose her would be worse to him than being called to part with all his children." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, I hope neither trial may ever be appointed him," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And so Chester and Lucilla, Max and Eva are engaged, remarked Mrs. Embury in a reflective tone;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have yet to hear of objection from any quarter, Mrs. Leland said with a smile," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I think, said Mrs. Arthur Conly, joining in the talk," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In which I sincerely hope he will get no encouragement from the captain, Dr. Conly added quickly and with strong emphasis." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Grace is much too young, and entirely too feeble to safely venture into wedlock for years to come." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And I think you may safely trust her father to see that she does not, said Grandma Elsie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am sure he agrees in your opinion and that Grace is too good and obedient a daughter ever to go contrary to his wishes." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Ah, daughters, he said in his usual kindly tones," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, yes, indeed, papa! both replied, smilingly and in mirthful tones, Lucilla adding," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Everything seems to have gone swimmingly to-day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even to the catching of the bride's bouquet, I suppose," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, papa; wasn't it odd that Eva and I happened to catch it together?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And were both highly elated over the happy augury?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hardly, I think, papa; though Chester and Max seemed rather elated by it. But really, she added with a mirthful look," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I depend far more upon my father's decision than upon dozens of such auguries; and besides am in no haste to leave his care and protection or go from under his authority." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Spoken like my own dear eldest daughter," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It would be strange indeed, if any one of your children did want to get from under it, papa," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am glad to hear you say that, daughter, he returned with a smile, and softly smoothing the shining, golden hair," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You may be perfectly sure I don't want to, papa, she returned with a gleeful, happy laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is just a joy and delight to me to feel that I belong to you and always shall as long as you want to keep me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Which will be just as long as you enjoy it--and we both live," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Lu, said Grace as she pulled down her hair before the glass," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It does not seem an easy thing to do, sighed Lucilla," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet what?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, I believe I'll tell you, returned Lucilla in a half-hesitating way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I have always valued father's love oh, so highly, and once when I happened accidentally to overhear something he said to Mamma Vi, it nearly broke my heart--for a while." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Why, Lu, what could it have been?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was that she was dearer to him than all his children put together--that he would lose every one of them rather than part with her. It made me feel for a while as if I had lost everything worth having--papa's love for me must be so very slight. But after a long and bitter cry over it I was comforted by remembering what the Bible says, 'Let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself.' And the words of Jesus, 'For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh.' So I could see it was right for my father to love his wife best of all earthly creatures--she being but a part of himself--and besides I could not doubt that he loved me and each one of his children very, very dearly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, I am sure he does, said Grace, vainly trying to speak in her usual cheery, light-hearted tones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, Lu, I don't wonder you cried over it. It would just kill me to think papa didn't care very much about me." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, Gracie, he does! I know he does! I am sure he would not hesitate a moment to risk his life for any one of us." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I am sure of it! and what but his love for you makes him so unwilling to give you up to Chester? I can see that Ches feels it hard to wait, but father certainly has the best of rights to keep his daughters to himself as long as they are under age." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And as much longer as he chooses, so far as I am concerned. I am only too glad that he seems so loath to give me up. My dear, dear father! Words cannot express my love for him or the regret I feel for the rebellious conduct which gave him so much pain and trouble in days long gone by." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dear Lu, said Grace," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am perfectly sure our dear father forgave all that long ago." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, but I can never forget or forgive it myself. Nor can I forget how glad and thankful he was that I was not the one killed by the bear out at Minersville, or his saving me that time when I was so nearly swept into Lake Erie by the wind; how closely he hugged me to his breast--a tear falling on my head--when he got me safely into the cabin, and the low-breathed words, 'Thank God, my darling, precious child is safe in my arms.' Oh, Gracie, I have seemed to hear the very words and tones many a time since. So I cannot doubt that he does love me very much; even if I am not so dear to him as his wife is." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you love mamma, too?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, indeed! she is just like a dear older sister. I may well love her since she is so dear to papa, and was so kind and forbearing with me in those early years of her married life when I certainly was very far from being the good and lovable child I ought to have been. She was very forbearing, and never gave papa the slightest hint of my badness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She has always been very good and kind to us, said Grace," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And papa showed his love for me in allowing Chester to offer himself because he had saved my life--for otherwise he would have forbidden it for at least another year or two." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, I know, said Grace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "We certainly have plenty of proofs that father does love us very much." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But we must not delay at this business, as he bade us hasten down again," }, { "from": "human", "value": "No; I'm afraid he is beginning to wonder what is keeping us so long," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Can I have a moment's chat with you, captain?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Certainly, Frank. It is a very modest request, was the kindly-toned response," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What can I do for you?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Very nearly the same thing that you have so kindly done for my brother, sir, replied the young man, coloring and hesitating somewhat in his speech." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I--I am deeply, desperately in love with your daughter, Miss Grace, and----" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Go no farther, my young friend, interrupted the captain in a grave though still kindly tone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have no objection to you personally, but Grace is entirely too young and too delicate for her father to consider for a moment the idea of allowing her to think of such a thing as marriage. Understand distinctly that I should be not a whit more ready to listen to such a request from any other man--older or younger, richer or poorer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But she is well worth waiting for, sir, and if you would only let me speak and try to win her affections, I----" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That must be waited for, Frank. I cannot and will not have her approached upon the subject, was the almost stern rejoinder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Promise me that you will not do or say anything to give her the idea that you want to be more to her than a friend." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That is a hard thing you are requiring, sir," }, { "from": "human", "value": "But quite necessary if you would be permitted to see much of Grace, returned the captain with great decision." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And, seeing that you feel toward her as you have just told me you do, I think the less you see of each other--or hold intercourse together--the better. Should she be in good, firm health some six or eight years hence, and you and she then have a fancy for each other, her father will not, probably, raise any objection to your suit; but until then I positively forbid anything and everything of the kind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I must say I find that a hard sentence, captain, sighed the would-be suitor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It strikes me that most fathers would be a trifle more ready to make an eligible match for a daughter of Miss Grace's age. She is very young, I acknowledge, but I have known some girls to marry even younger. And you will not even allow her to enter into an engagement?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "No; I have no desire to rid myself of my daughter; very far from it. For my first set of children I have a peculiarly tender feeling because--excepting each other--they have no very near relative but myself. They were quite young when they lost their mother, and for years I have felt that I must fill to them the place of both parents as far as possible, and have tried to do so. As one result, he added with his pleasant smile," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I find that I am exceedingly loath to give them up into any other care and keeping." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But since we are neighbors and distant connections, and my brother engaged to Miss Lu, you do not absolutely forbid me your house, captain?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No; you may see Grace in my presence--perhaps occasionally out of it--provided you carefully obey my injunction to refrain from anything like love-making." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, sir; I accept the conditions," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "There's father now! exclaimed Grace, tripping down the stairs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Papa, as he turned at the sound of her voice and glanced up at her," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I've been re-arranging my hair. Please tell me if you like it in this style." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Certainly, daughter; I like it in any style in which I have ever seen it arranged, he returned, regarding it critically, but with an evidently admiring gaze." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am glad and thankful that you have an abundance of it--such as it is, he added sportively, taking her hand in his as she reached his side. Then turning to Lucilla," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And yours, too, Lulu, seems to be in well-cared-for condition." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, papa dear; I like occasionally to hear you call me by that name so constantly used in the happy days of my childhood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah! I hope that does not mean that these are not happy days?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, no, indeed, father! I don't believe there is a happier girl than I in all this broad land." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am thankful for that, he said with a tenderly affectionate look into her eyes as she stood at his side gazing up into his;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, father dear, we both know you would take any amount of trouble for our pleasure or profit, said Grace gayly;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And are so dear to him, added Lucilla." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I couldn't be the happy girl I am if I didn't know that." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Never doubt it, my darlings; never for a moment," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, so here you are, girls! exclaimed a familiar voice just in their rear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I have been all round the verandas, looking for you, but you seemed to be lost in the crowd or to have vanished into thin air." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Certainly not that last, sister Rose, laughed the captain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I am happy to say there is something a good deal more substantial than that about them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I see there is; they are both looking remarkably well. And now I hope we can have a good chat. There has hardly been an opportunity for it yet--there being such a crowd of relations and friends, and such a commotion over the wedding--and you know I want to hear all about what you did and saw in Florida. Also to tell you of the improvements we are talking of making at Riverside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You will have hardly time for a very long talk, Rosie, said her mother, joining them at that moment." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The call to dinner will come soon. But here are comfortable chairs and a sofa in which you can rest and chat until then." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, mamma, and you will join us, will you not? And you too, brother Levis?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shall be pleased to do so if my company is desired," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course it is, sir. I always enjoyed your company even when you were my respected and revered instructor with the right and power to punish me if I failed in conduct or recitation," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I am rejoiced to hear it," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And you may as well make yourself useful as story-teller of all you folks saw and did in Florida," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Much too long a tale for the few minutes we are likely to be able to give to it at present, he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Let us reserve that for another time and now hear the story of your own prospective doings at Riverside." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Or talk about this morning's wedding. It was a pretty one; wasn't it? I never saw Sidney look so charming as she did in that wedding gown and veil. I hope they will have as pleasant a wedding trip as my Will and I had; and be as happy afterward as we are." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I hope so, indeed, said her mother," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, mamma, I join you in that. And, Lu, how soon do you expect to follow suit and give her the right to call you sister?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When my father bids me; not a moment sooner," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Which will not be for many months to come. He is far from feeling ready yet to resign even one of his heart's best treasures." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, it is a joy to have you call me that, papa!" } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I want you to rest here a while, daughter, for I see you are looking weary; which is not strange, considering how much more than your usual amount of exercise you have already taken to-day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, I am a little tired, papa, she answered, with a loving smile up into his eyes as she sank somewhat wearily into the chair," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ah! he returned, patting her cheek and smiling affectionately upon her," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And our dear Gracie is certainly one of those, said Violet, coming to the other side of the young girl and looking down a little anxiously into the sweet, fair face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Are you very weary, dearest?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, not so very, mamma dear, she answered blithely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This is a delightful chair papa has put me into, and a little rest in it, while digesting the good hearty meal I have just eaten, will make me all right again, I think." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Won't you take this other one by her side, my love? I think you too need a little rest," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thank you, I will if you will occupy that one on her other side, so that we will have her between us. And here come Lu and Rosie, so that we can perhaps finish the chat she tells me she was holding with you and the girls before the call to dinner." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I don't believe we can, mamma, laughed Grace," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then we will just defer it until another time, said Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Those who have children will soon be leaving for their homes and those left behind will form a smaller, quieter party." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Now, Grace, my child, linger not a moment longer, but get to bed as fast as you can," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I will, father dear," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She is looking very weary. I fear I have let her exert herself to-day far more than was for her good," }, { "from": "human", "value": "But I hope a good night's rest will make it all right with her, Violet returned in a cheery tone, adding playfully," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Excellent ones, too, said Lucilla;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "I shall endeavor not to, my wise young mentor," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, papa, please excuse me if I seemed to be trying to teach you! she exclaimed in a tone of penitence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'm afraid it sounded very conceited and disrespectful." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If it did it was not, I am sure, so intended, so I shall not punish you this time," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I hope you will if you think I deserve it, father," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I but jested, daughter, he said in tender tones," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, father, how kind in you to say that! she exclaimed in low, but joyous tones." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do dearly love to make you my confidant--you are so wise and kind and I am so sure that you love me dearly, as your very own God-given property. Am I not that still as truly as I ever was?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Indeed you are! as truly now as when you were a babe in arms, he said, with a happy laugh and drawing her closer to his heart." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A treasure that no amount of money could buy from me. Your price is above rubies, my own darling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What sweet words, papa! she exclaimed with a happy sigh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But sometimes when I think of all my past naughtiness--giving you so much pain and trouble--I wonder that you can love me half so well as you do." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Dear child, I think I never loved you the less because of all that, nor you me less because of the severity of my discipline." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Papa, I believe I always loved you better for your strictness and severity. You made it so clear to me that it was done for my best good and that it hurt you when you felt it your duty to give me pain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It did indeed! he said;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ah, father, what sweet, sweet words to hear from your lips! they make me so glad, so happy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pleasant words those for me to hear, and a pleasant thought that my dear eldest daughter is not in haste to leave my protecting care for that of another. I trust Chester is inclined to wait patiently until the right time comes?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He has made it evident to me that he would much rather shorten the time of waiting if there were a possibility of gaining my father's consent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But that there is not, the captain replied with decision." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If I should consider only my own feeling and inclination and my belief as to what would be really best for you, I should certainly keep full possession of my eldest daughter for several years to come. I have had a talk with Dr. Conly on the subject, and he, as a physician, tells me it would be far better in most cases, for a girl to remain single until well on toward twenty-five." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Which would make her quite an old maid, I should think, papa, laughed Lucilla." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yet if you bid me wait that long and can make Chester content--I'll not be at all rebellious." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, I don't believe you would; but I have really no idea of trying you so far. By the way, Rosie and her Will, Maud and Dick seem two very happy couples." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, indeed, father; it is a pleasure to watch them. And do you know I think Frank Dinsmore is casting longing eyes at our Grace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But you don't think the dear child cares at all for him?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, no, sir! no, indeed! Grace doesn't care in the least for beaux, and loves no other man half so well as she does her father and mine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just as I thought; but I want you quietly to help me prevent any private interviews between them--lest she might learn to care for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Thank you for trusting me, papa; I will do any best," }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is a pity, for of course your father--I had very nearly said father, for I begin to feel as if I belonged in his flock--considering us older ones too young to marry, will say she is very far from being old enough for loverlike attentions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, he does, replied Lucilla," }, { "from": "human", "value": "I'll do so with pleasure, laughed Evelyn," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What's the matter with you, Frank? queried the doctor at length." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Didn't things go off to suit you to-day?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Well enough, grumbled Frank," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, ho! so that's the way the land lies! It's Grace Raymond you're after, eh? And she won't consent?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her father won't. I must not say a word to her on the subject." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And he is right, Frank, returned the doctor gravely." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She is far too young and too delicate to begin with such things. Art would tell you that in a moment if you should ask him. My opinion as a physician is that marriage now would be likely to kill her within a year; or, if she lived, make her an invalid for life." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'd be willing to let marriage wait if I might only speak and win her promise; but no, I'm positively forbidden to say a word." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You would gain nothing by it if you did, said Chester." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She is devoted to her father and hasn't the least idea of falling in love with any other man." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ridiculous! growled Frank." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Well, things being as they are, I'll not tarry long in this part of the country. I'll go back and attend to the business of our clients, and you, Chester, can stay on here with your fiancée and her family, and perhaps gather up a larger amount of health and strength." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Don't be in a hurry about leaving us, Frank, said Dick cordially." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Maud has been calculating on at least a few days more of your good company; and there's no telling when you may find it convenient to pay us another visit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Thanks, Dick; you are hospitality itself; and this is a lovely home you have secured, for yourself and Maud. I'll sleep on the question of the time of departure. And now good-night and pleasant dreams. I hope none of your patients will call you out before sunrise." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "What is wanted?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "You, doctah, fast as you kin git dar, down to Lamont--ole Massa Gest's place. Leetle Miss Nellie she got a fit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Indeed! I am very sorry to hear it. I'll be there as soon as possible," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, doctah, sah, is you bad hurted?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pretty badly, I'm afraid, Pete, groaned the doctor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Help me to the house, and then you must ride over to Viamede as fast as you can, wake up Dr. Harold Travilla and ask him to come to me immediately to set some broken bones. Take one of the other horses with you for him to ride. Ah, as he attempted to rise," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'm hardly able to walk, Pete; you will have to pretty nearly carry me to the house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I kin do dat, doctah; Ise a strong-built nigger; jes lemme tote you 'long like de mammies do de leetle darkies." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Harold, Harold! groaned the sufferer," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Morning, sah! is you uns one ob de doctahs?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, replied the captain;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Massa doctah, he's 'most killed! Horse frowed him. Please, sah, where de doctahs? I'se in pow'ful big hurry to git dem dere fore----" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Here, called the voice of Harold from an upper window;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I think it is you, and probably Herbert also, who are wanted in all haste at Torriswood, answered Captain Raymond, his voice betraying both anxiety and alarm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It seems Dick has met with a serious accident and has sent for one or both of you." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, replied Herbert, speaking as Harold had from the window," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "I think we should have Cousin Arthur here, said Harold." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Certainly, responded Herbert;" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As I am. I will speak to Maud and have him sent for immediately." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, father, she exclaimed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I do hope he is not seriously injured! Poor Maud! She must be sorely distressed, for he has proved such a good, kind husband, and she almost idolizes him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, I feel deeply for her as well as for him. We will pray for them both, asking that if it be consistent with the will of God, he may be speedily restored to perfect health and strength." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, papa; what a comfort it is that we may cast upon the Lord all our care for ourselves and others!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It is indeed! I have found it so in many a sore trial sent to myself or to some one dear to me. I am glad for Maud that she has her brothers with her now." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I too, papa, and I suppose Chester will stay with her to-day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Most likely; and my daughter must not feel hurt should he not show himself here at his usual early hour, or even at all to-day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I'll try not, papa. I am sure it would be very selfish in me to grudge poor dear Maud any show of sympathy or any comfort she might receive from him--her own dear eldest brother." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yes, so I think, said her father," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yes, poor Dick is certainly badly hurt, he said," }, { "from": "human", "value": "But the case is not thought to be hopeless?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No, not exactly that, but the doctors are not yet able to decide just what the internal injury may be." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And while there is life there is hope, said Grandma Elsie in determinately cheerful tones." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It is certainly in his favor that he is a strong, healthy man, in the prime of life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And still more that he is a Christian man; therefore ready for any event," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And so loved and useful a man that we may well unite in prayer for his recovery, if consistent with the will of God," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And so we will, said Cousin Ronald." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I feel assured that no one of us will refuse or neglect the performance of that duty." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And we can plead the promise, 'If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven,' said Mrs. Dinsmore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "So I have strong hope that dear Dick will be spared to us. He is certainly a much loved and very useful man." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And Maud must be relieved as far as possible from other cares, remarked Mrs. Travilla." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I shall at once invite my brother and his family here. There is room enough, especially as my two sons are there and will be nearly, if not all, the time while Dick is so ill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No, cousin, said Chester," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, that is good and kind in her," }, { "from": "human", "value": "And very fortunate it is that she happened to be there, ready for the undertaking, said Mrs. Rose Croly;" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "True enough, assented Chester." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Things are never so bad but they might be worse." } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Dear little ladies and gentlemen, may I sit here with you for a while? I'm lonesome and would be glad of good company, such as I am sure yours must be." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, yes, little girl. Take this empty chair by me and tell me who you are." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, madam, I really can't tell you my name, answered the voice, now seeming to come from the empty chair by Violet's side." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It seems an odd thing to happen, but there are folks who do sometimes forget their own name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And that is the case with you now, is it? laughed Violet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Your voice sounds like that of a girl, but I very much doubt if you belong to our sex." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Isn't that rather insulting, madam?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, I know you're not a girl or a woman either! cried Ned Raymond gleefully, clapping his hands and laughing with delight." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You're a man, just pretending to be a little girl." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That is insulting, you rude little chap, and I shall just go away," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "Why, she went off in a hurry and I couldn't see her at all! exclaimed one of the young visitors; then, as everybody laughed," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Oh, of course it was Cousin Ronald or Cousin Max!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Why, the voice sounded to me like that of a little girl, said Violet," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course they are, and could not talk in the sweet tones of my little girl," } ]

[ { "from": "human", "value": "And who are you and your girl?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "People of consequence, whom you should treat with courtesy," }, { "from": "human", "value": "As we will if you will come forward and show yourselves," }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Never mind, Lu; its sting won't damage you seriously," }, { "from": "human", "value": "Oh, hark! here come the soldiers again!" } ]