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| title
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12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Jis' look at dem, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ain't dey beauties? I bought 'em out ob my bounty-money. Arter de war war ober I had a little money, an' I war gwine ter rent a plantation on sheers an' git out a good stan' ob cotton. Cotton war bringin' orful high prices den, but Lindy said to me, 'Now, John, you'se got a lot ob money, an' you'd better salt it down. I'd ruther lib on a little piece ob lan' ob my own dan a big piece ob somebody else's. Well, I says to Lindy, I dun know nuthin' 'bout buyin' lan', an' I'se 'fraid arter I'se done buyed it an' put all de marrer ob dese bones in it, dat somebody's far-off cousin will come an' say de title ain't good, an' I'll lose it all."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're right thar, John, said Uncle Daniel."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "White man's so unsartain, black man's nebber safe."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But somehow, continued Salters,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Lindy warn't satisfied wid rentin', so I buyed a piece ob lan', an' I'se glad now I'se got it. Lindy's got a lot ob gumption; knows most as much as a man. She ain't got dat long head fer nuffin. She's got lots ob sense, but I don't like to tell her so."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not? asked Iola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you think it would make her feel too happy?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, it don't do ter tell you women how much we thinks ob you. It sets you up too much. Ole Gundover's overseer war my marster, an' he used ter lib in dis bery house. I'se fixed it up sence I'se got it. Now I'se better off dan he is, 'cause he tuck to drink, an' all his frens is gone, an' he's in de pore-house."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, Lindy, ain't you ready yet? Do hurry up."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I'se ready, but things wouldn't go right ef you didn't hurry me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, put your chicken fixins an' cake right in yere. Captin, you'll ride wid me, an' de young lady an' my ole woman'll take de back seat. Uncle Dan'el, dere's room for you ef you'll go."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, I thank you. It's time fer ole folks to go to bed. Good night! An', Bobby, I hopes to see you agin'."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Does yer know dis place, Robby,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should think I did, replied Robert."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is the place where we held our last prayer-meeting."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An' dere's dat ole broken pot we used, ter tell 'bout de war. But warn't ole Miss hoppin' wen she foun' out you war goin' to de war! I thought she'd go almos' wile. Now, own up, Robby, didn't you feel kine ob mean to go off widout eben biddin' her good bye? An' I ralely think ole Miss war fon' ob yer. Now, own up, honey, didn't yer feel a little down in de mouf wen yer lef' her."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not much, responded Robert."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I only thought she was getting paid back for selling my mother."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat's so, Robby! yore mudder war a likely gal, wid long black hair, an' kine ob ginger-bread color. An' you neber hearn tell ob her sence dey sole her to Georgia?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Never, replied Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You's right, boy, cause she lub'd you as she lub'd her own life. Many a time hes she set in my ole cabin an' cried 'bout yer wen you war fas' asleep. It's all ober now, but I'se gwine to hole up fer dem Yankees dat gib me my freedom, an' sent dem nice ladies from de Norf to gib us some sense. Some ob dese folks calls em nigger teachers, an' won't hab nuffin to do wid 'em, but I jis' thinks dey's splendid. But dere's some triflin' niggers down yere who'll sell der votes for almost nuffin. Does you 'member Jake Williams an' Gundover's Tom? Well dem two niggers is de las' ob pea-time. Dey's mighty small pertaters an' few in a hill."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Aunt Linda, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dey ain't my kine ob people. I jis' calls em niggers, an' niggers I means; an' de bigges' kine ob niggers. An' if my John war sich a nigger I'd whip him an' leave him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An' what would I be a doin',"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Standing still and taking it, I suppose,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, an' I'd ketch myself stan'in' still an' takin' it,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, you oughter, ef you's mean enough to wote dat ticket ter put me back inter slavery, was Aunt Linda's parting shot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Robby, she continued,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course I do,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She married Mr. Gundover's Dick. Well, dere warn't much git up an' go 'bout him. So, wen 'lection time com'd, de man he war workin' fer tole him ef he woted de radical ticket he'd turn him off. Well, Jinnie war so 'fraid he'd do it, dat she jis' follered him fer days."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Poor fellow! exclaimed Robert."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How did he come out?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He certainly was between two fires,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Jinnie gained de day. She jis' got her back up, and said, 'Now ef yer wote dat ticket ter put me back inter slavery, you take yore rags an' go.' An' Dick jis' woted de radical ticket. Jake Williams went on de Secesh side, woted whar he thought he'd git his taters, but he got fooled es slick es greese."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How was that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Some ob dem folks, dat I 'spects buyed his wote, sent him some flour an' sugar. So one night his wife hab company ter tea. Dey made a big spread, an' put a lot ob sugar on de table fer supper, an' Tom jis' went fer dat sugar. He put a lot in his tea. But somehow it didn't tase right, an' wen dey come ter fine out what war de matter, dey hab sent him a barrel ob san' wid some sugar on top, an' wen de sugar war all gone de san' war dare. Wen I yeard it, I jis' split my sides a larfin. It war too good to keep; an' wen it got roun', Jake war as mad as a March hare. But it sarved him right."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Aunt Linda, you musn't be too hard on Uncle Jake; you know he's getting old."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well he ain't too ole ter do right. He ain't no older dan Uncle Dan'el. An' I yered dey offered him $500 ef he'd go on dere side. An' Uncle Dan'el wouldn't tech it. An' dere's Uncle Job's wife; why didn't she go dat way? She war down on Job's meanness."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What did she do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wen 'lection time 'rived, he com'd home bringing some flour an' meat; an' he says ter Aunt Polly, 'Ole woman, I got dis fer de wote.' She jis' picked up dat meat an' flour an' sent it sailin' outer doors, an' den com'd back an' gib him a good tongue-lashin'. 'Oder people,' she said, 'a wotin' ter lib good, an' you a sellin' yore wote! Ain't you got 'nuff ob ole Marster, an' ole Marster bin cuttin' you up? It shan't stay yere.' An' so she wouldn't let de things stay in de house."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What did Uncle Job do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He jis' stood dere an' cried."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And didn't you feel sorry for him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not a bit! he hedn't no business ter be so shabby."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Aunt Linda, pursued Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see, added Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I knows dat, said Aunt Linda,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Aunt Linda, they say in every flock of sheep there will be one that's scabby,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat's so! But I ain't got no use fer scabby sheep."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Lindy, cried John,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Neber mine, said Aunt Linda,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I rise, bredren an' sisters, to say I'm on my solemn march to glory."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Amen!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Glory!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'se had my trials an' temptations, my ups an' downs; but I feels I'll soon be in one ob de many mansions. If it hadn't been for dat hope I 'spects I would have broken down long ago. I'se bin through de deep waters, but dey didn't overflow me; I'se bin in de fire, but de smell ob it isn't on my garments. Bredren an' sisters, it war a drefful time when I war tored away from my pore little chillen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat's so!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When my little girl, continued the speaker,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Since then, brethren and sisters, I have had my crosses and trials, but I try to look at the mercies. Just think what it was then and what it is now! How many of us, since freedom has come, have been looking up our scattered relatives. I have just been over to visit my old mistress, Nancy Johnson, and to see if I could get some clue to my long-lost mother, who was sold from me nearly thirty years ago."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I heard that dear old mother tell her experience it seemed as if some one had risen from the dead. She made me think of my own dear mother, who used to steal out at night to see me, fold me in her arms, and then steal back again to her work. After she was sold away I never saw her face again by daylight. I have been looking for her ever since the war, and I think at last I have got on the right track. If Mrs. Johnson, who kept the boarding-house in C----, is the one who sold that dear old mother from her son, then she is the one I am looking for, and I am the son she has been praying for."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Robby! Robby! is dis you? Is dat my pore, dear boy I'se been prayin' 'bout all dese years? Oh, glory! glory!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is dis yore wife?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no, replied Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is she? Dear chile! I hope she'll fine her! She puts me in mine ob my pore little Marie. Well, I'se got one chile, an' I means to keep on prayin' tell I fine my daughter. I'm _so_ happy! I feel's like a new woman!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear mother, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, pore, dear chile! I specs her mudder's heart's mighty hungry fer her. I does hope she's my gran'chile."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, Harriet, she said, as they rode along on their return journey,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Lindy, she cried,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'se glad from de bottom ob my heart ter see you's all. I com'd out dere ter git a blessin', an' I'se got a double po'tion. De frens I war libin' wid war mighty good ter me. Dey lib'd wid me in de lower kentry, an' arter de war war ober I stopped wid 'em and helped take keer ob de chillen; an' when dey com'd up yere dey brought me wid 'em. I'se com'd a way I didn't know, but I'se mighty glad I'se com'd."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Does you know dis place?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No'n 'deed I don't. It's all new ter me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, dis is whar I libs. Ain't you mighty tired? I feels a little stiffish. Dese bones is gittin' ole."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat's so! But I'se mighty glad I'se lib'd to see my boy 'fore I crossed ober de riber. An' now I feel like ole Simeon."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, mother, said Robert,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here, she said, filling three glasses,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, thank you, said Robert."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm a temperance man, and never take anything which has alcohol in it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, dis ain't got a bit ob alcohol in it. I made it myself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Aunt Linda, you didn't make the law which ferments grape-juice and makes it alcohol."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Robby, ef alcohol's so bad, w'at made de Lord put it here?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aunt Lindy, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I heard a lady say that there were two things the Lord didn't make. One is sin, and the other alcohol."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, Aunt Linda, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What are they?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and moccasins."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, sho!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aunt Linda, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And, Aunt Linda, added Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon Robby's right, said his mother, setting down her glass and leaving the wine unfinished."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You young folks knows a heap more dan we ole folks."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, declared Aunt Linda,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let it turn to vinegar, and sign the temperance pledge,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't keer 'bout it myself, but I don't 'spect John would be willin' ter let it go, 'cause he likes it a heap."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you must give it up for his sake and Job's, said Robert."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They may learn to like it too well."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know, Aunt Linda, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat' so! I beliebs I'll let dis turn to winegar, an' not make any more."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's right, Aunt Linda. I hope you'll hold to it,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Iola, I hope that such happiness is in store for you. My dear child, still continue to pray and trust. I am old-fashioned enough to believe in prayer. I knew an old lady living in Illinois, who was a slave. Her son got a chance to come North and beg money to buy his mother. The mother was badly treated, and made up her mind to run away. But before she started she thought she would kneel down to pray. And something, she said, reasoned within her, and whispered, 'Stand still and see what I am going to do for you.' So real was it to her that she unpacked her bundle and desisted from her flight. Strange as it may appear to you, her son returned, bringing with him money enough to purchase her freedom, and she was redeemed from bondage. Had she persisted in running away she might have been lost in the woods and have died, exhausted by starvation. But she believed, she trusted, and was delivered. Her son took her North, where she could find a resting place for the soles of her feet."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What, said Mrs. Johnson, as we shall call Robert's mother,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, he drunk hisself to death,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He used ter be mighty handsome."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, but drink war his ruination."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An' how's Miss Nancy?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, she's com'd down migh'ly. She's pore as a church mouse. I thought 'twould com'd home ter her wen she sole yer 'way from yore chillen. Dere's nuffin goes ober de debil's back dat don't come under his belly. Do yo 'member Miss Nancy's fardder?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ob course I does!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Aunt Linda,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pore Miss Nancy! exclaimed Robert's mother."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I ain't nothin' agin her. But I wouldn't swap places wid her, 'cause I'se got my son; an' I beliebs he'll do a good part by me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mother, said Robert, as he entered the room,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've brought an old friend to see you. Do you remember Uncle Daniel?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Har'yet! is dis you? I neber 'spected to see you in dese lower grouns! How does yer do? an' whar hab you bin all dis time?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "O, I'se been tossin' roun' 'bout; but it's all com'd right at las'. I'se lib'd to see my boy 'fore I died."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My wife an' boys is in glory, said Uncle Daniel."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But I 'spects to see 'em 'fore long. 'Cause I'se tryin' to dig deep, build sure, an' make my way from earth ter glory."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dat's de right kine ob talk, Dan'el. We ole folks ain't got long ter stay yere."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We'll hab a word ob prayer."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The house is engaged, or,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We do not rent to colored people."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, my son, my son!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mamma; oh, mamma! have I found you at last?"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear son, Marie would say, as she bent fondly over him,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am deeply sorry that you are wounded, but I am glad that the fortunes of war have brought us together. Poor Iola! I _do_ wonder what has become of her? Just as soon as this war is over I want you to search the country all over. Poor child! How my heart has ached for her!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mamma, said Harry, one day during his vacation,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Poor child! burst out Marie, as the tears gathered in her eyes,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder if she is living."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think so, said Harry, kissing the pale cheek of his mother;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't feel that Iola is dead. I believe we will find her before long."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It seems to me my heart would burst with joy to see my dear child just once more. I am glad that you are going. When will you leave?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-morrow morning."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, my son, go, and my prayers will go with you,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have an interesting duty to perform. I wish to introduce a young lady to the conference, who was the daughter of a Mississippi planter. She is now in search of her mother and brother, from whom she was sold a few months before the war. Her father married her mother in Ohio, where he had taken her to be educated. After his death they were robbed of their inheritance and enslaved by a distant relative named Lorraine. Miss Iola Leroy is the young lady's name. If any one can give the least information respecting the objects of her search it will be thankfully received."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can, exclaimed a young man, rising in the midst of the audience, and pressing eagerly, almost impetuously, forward."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am her brother, and I came here to look for her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "O, Harry! Then she fainted from excitement. The women gathered around her with expressions of tender sympathy, and gave her all the care she needed. They called her the"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear child, you are so changed I do not think I would have known you if I had met you in the street!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I, said Harry,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Am I so changed?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Iola, said Harry,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I remember, said Iola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It all comes back to me like a dream. Oh, mamma! I have passed through a fiery ordeal of suffering since then. But it is useless, and as she continued her face assumed a brighter look,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, continued Iola, with eyes full of gladness,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think I have found them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can it be possible! exclaimed Marie, in astonishment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is more than thirty years since we parted. I fear you are mistaken."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Drooping souls no longer grieve, Heaven is propitious; If on Christ you do believe, You will find Him precious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I remember,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "After I had finished the hymn, continued Iola,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, dear, said Harry, one morning at the breakfast-table,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have a new pleasure in store for you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is it, brother mine?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is a young lady living in this city to whom I wish to introduce you. She is one of the most remarkable women I have ever met."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She, replied Harry,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Harry, said Mrs. Leroy, smiling,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no, mamma, replied Harry, looking slightly confused,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I did not mean that."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Harry, said Iola, amused,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, in the first place, continued Harry,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose she is about twenty-five years old."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, the idea, interrupted Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, Iola, that adds to the interest of my picture. It is her combination of earnestness and youthfulness which enhances her in my estimation."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pardon the interruption, said Iola;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am anxious to hear more about her."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, she is of medium height, somewhat slender, and well formed, with dark, expressive eyes, full of thought and feeling. Neither hair nor complexion show the least hint of blood admixture."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am glad of it, said Iola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Every person of unmixed blood who succeeds in any department of literature, art, or science is a living argument for the capability which is in the race."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, responded Harry,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am very glad to have met you. Young women like you always fill my heart with hope for the future of our race. In you I see reflected some of the blessed possibilities which lie within us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, said Miss Delany,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want to be classed among those of whom it is said, 'She has done what she could.'"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is one thing, continued the letter,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I remember it well, said Marie,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Marie, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should like to go North, but I hate to leave Harry. He's a splendid young fellow, although I say it myself. He is so fearless and outspoken that I am constantly anxious about him, especially at election time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We were talking of you, my son,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What were you saying? Nothing of the absent but good?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was telling your uncle, who wants me to come North, that I would go, but I am afraid that you will get into trouble and be murdered, as many others have been."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, well, mother, I shall not die till my time comes. And if I die helping the poor and needy, I shall die at my post. Could a man choose a better place to die?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Were you aware of the virulence of caste prejudice and the disabilities which surround the colored people when you cast your lot with them?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not fully, replied Harry;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are right, Harry. I think it would be treason, not only to the race, but to humanity, to have you ignoring your kindred and masquerading as a white man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think so, too,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, sister, I am anxious for you all to come North. If Harry feels that the place of danger is the post of duty, let him stay, and he can spend his vacations with us. I think both you and Iola need rest and change. Mother longs to see you before she dies. She feels that we have been the children of many prayers and tears, and I want to make her last days as happy as possible. The South has not been a paradise to you all the time, and I should think you would be willing to leave it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, that is so. Iola needs rest and change, and she would be such a comfort to mother. I suppose, for her sake, I will consent to have her go back with you, at least for awhile."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Robert, said Iola, after she had been North several weeks,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have a theory that every woman ought to know how to earn her own living. I believe that a great amount of sin and misery springs from the weakness and inefficiency of women."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps that's so, but what are you going to do about it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am going to join the great rank of bread-winners. Mr. Waterman has advertised for a number of saleswomen, and I intend to make application."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When he advertises for help he means white women,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He said nothing about color,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't suppose he did. He doesn't expect any colored girl to apply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, I think I could fill the place. At least I should like to try. And I do not think when I apply that I am in duty bound to tell him my great-grandmother was a negro."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, child, there is no necessity for you to go out to work. You are perfectly welcome here, and I hope that you feel so."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I certainly do. But still I would rather earn my own living."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Grandma,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't say anything about it to the girls. They might not be willing to work with you."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where do you go to church?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I go, she replied,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no; you must be mistaken. There is no church there except a colored one."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is where I go."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why do you go there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because I liked it when I came here, and joined it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A member of a colored church? What under heaven possessed you to do such a thing?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because I wished to be with my own people."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, uncle, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I feel out of heart. It seems as if the prejudice pursues us through every avenue of life, and assigns us the lowest places."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That is so,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And yet I am determined, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, if you _will_ go, say nothing about your color."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Uncle Robert, I see no necessity for proclaiming that fact on the house-top. Yet I am resolved that nothing shall tempt me to deny it. The best blood in my veins is African blood, and I am not ashamed of it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hurrah for you!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I must be honest with you; I am a colored woman."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I must see the board of managers about it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If ye have respect to persons ye commit sin,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can it be possible dat dis is my little Marie?"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, said Robert, after the first joyous greeting was over,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's all ready,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Robert, said Iola, after her mother had been with them several weeks,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am tired of being idle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's the matter now? asked Robert."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are surely not going East again, and leave your mother?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I hope not, said Marie, anxiously."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been so long without you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, mamma, I am not going East. I can get suitable employment here in the city of P----."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Iola, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Uncle Robert, I think that every woman should have some skill or art which would insure her at least a comfortable support. I believe there would be less unhappy marriages if labor were more honored among women."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Iola, said her mother,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nursing. I was very young when I went into the hospital, but I succeeded so well that the doctor said I must have been a born nurse. Now, I see by the papers, that a gentleman who has an invalid daughter wants some one who can be a nurse and companion for her, and I mean to apply for the situation. I do not think, if I do my part well in that position, that the blood in my veins will be any bar to my success."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How did you succeed?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Admirably! 'Everything is lovely and the goose hangs high.' I gave my employés to understand that they could leave if they did not wish to work with Miss Leroy. Not one of them left, or showed any disposition to rebel."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am very glad, said Mrs. Cloten."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am ashamed of the way she has been treated in our city, when seeking to do her share in the world's work. I am glad that you were brave enough to face this cruel prejudice, and give her a situation."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, my dear, do not make me a hero for a single act. I am grateful for the care Miss Leroy gave our Daisy. Money can buy services, but it cannot purchase tender, loving sympathy. I was also determined to let my employés know that I, not they, commanded my business. So, do not crown me a hero until I have won a niche in the temple of fame. In dealing with Southern prejudice against the negro, we Northerners could do it with better grace if we divested ourselves of our own. We irritate the South by our criticisms, and, while I confess that there is much that is reprehensible in their treatment of colored people, yet if our Northern civilization is higher than theirs we should 'criticise by creation.' We should stamp ourselves on the South, and not let the South stamp itself on us. When we have learned to treat men according to the complexion of their souls, and not the color of their skins, we will have given our best contribution towards the solution of the negro problem."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I feel, my dear, said Mrs. Cloten,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good-morning, Miss Leroy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Dr. Gresham, is this you? said Iola, lifting her eyes to that well-remembered face."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It has been several years since we met. How have you been all this time, and where?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been sick, and am just now recovering from malaria and nervous prostration. I am attending a medical convention in this city, and hope that I shall have the pleasure of seeing you again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I should be pleased to have you call."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It would give me great pleasure. Where shall I call?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My home is 1006 South Street, but I am only at home in the evenings."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thou art too lovely and precious a gem To be bound to their burdens and sullied by them."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To see you again, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You had not forgotten me, then?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Forget you! I would just as soon forget my own existence. I do not think that time will ever efface the impressions of those days in which we met so often. When last we met you were intending to search for your mother. Have you been successful?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "More than successful, said Iola, with a joyous ring in her voice."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have found my mother, brother, grandmother, and uncle, and, except my brother, we are all living together, and we are so happy. Excuse me a few minutes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "These, said Iola, introducing her mother and grandmother,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your face looks familiar, but I saw so many faces at the hospital that I cannot just now recall your name."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, said Robert Johnson,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was one of your last patients, and I was with Tom Anderson when he died."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yes, replied Dr. Gresham;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I saw you when you were recovering. You told me that you thought you had a clue to your lost relatives, from whom you had been so long separated. How have you succeeded?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Admirably! I have been fortunate in finding my mother, my sister, and her children."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, indeed! I am delighted to hear it. Where are they?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They are right here. This is my mother, said Robert, bending fondly over her, as she returned his recognition with an expression of intense satisfaction;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "he continued,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is it possible? I am very glad to hear it. It has been said that every cloud has its silver lining, and the silver lining of our war cloud is the redemption of a race and the reunion of severed hearts. War is a dreadful thing; but worse than the war was the slavery which preceded it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Slavery, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And war, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, Doctor, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A fuller comprehension of the claims of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and their application to our national life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, said Robert;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Dr. Gresham;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Slavery, said Mrs. Leroy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The problem of the nation, continued Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, said Mrs. Leroy;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am glad, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And our work, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope that time will speedily come, said Marie."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My son is in the South, and I am always anxious for his safety. He is not only a teacher, but a leading young man in the community where he lives."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, answered Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, said Iola, decidedly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not understand you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, continued Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not think life's highest advantages are those that we can see with our eyes or grasp with our hands. To whom to-day is the world most indebted--to its millionaires or to its martyrs?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Taking it from the ideal standpoint, replied the doctor,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I should say its martyrs."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To be, continued Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I, said Mrs. Leroy, her face aglow with fervid feeling,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Dr. Gresham, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not simply, said Iola,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This meeting has been a very unexpected pleasure. I have spent a delightful evening. I only regret that I had not others to share it with me. A doctor from the South, a regular Bourbon, is stopping at the hotel. I wish he could have been here to-night. Come down to the Concordia, Mr. Johnson, to-morrow night. If you know any colored man who is a strong champion of equal rights, bring him along. Good-night. I shall look for you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Dr. Gresham has invited me to come to his hotel to-morrow night, and to bring some wide-awake colored man with me. There is a Southerner whom he wishes me to meet. I suppose he wants to discuss the negro problem, as they call it. He wants some one who can do justice to the subject. I wonder whom I can take with me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will tell you who, I think, will be a capital one to take with you, and I believe he would go,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Rev. Carmicle, your pastor."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is just the one, said Robert,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Permit me, now, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, replied Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And why let politics alone?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because, replied Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have you any reason, inquired Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am not afraid of the negro as he stands alone, but what I dread is that in some closely-contested election ambitious men will use him to hold the balance of power and make him an element of danger. He is ignorant, poor, and clannish, and they may impact him as their policy would direct."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Any more, asked Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ignorance, poverty, and clannishness, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I think, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The negro, replied Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What, then, is your remedy?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I would eliminate him from the politics of the country."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As disfranchisement is a punishment for crime, is it just to punish a man before he transgresses the law?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And even, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wisely, or unwisely, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-day, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Power, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think you Northerners fail to do us justice, said Dr. Latrobe."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The men into whose hands you put the ballot were our slaves, and we would rather die than submit to them. Look at the carpet-bag governments the wicked policy of the Government inflicted upon us. It was only done to humiliate us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no! said Dr. Gresham, flushing, and rising to his feet."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We had no other alternative than putting the ballot in their hands."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will not deny, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They were allies in war, continued Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Protect them in peace! said Robert, bitterly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What protection does the colored man receive from the hands of the Government? I know of no civilized country outside of America where men are still burned for real or supposed crimes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Johnson, said Dr. Gresham, compassionately,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And there, said Dr. Latrobe, emphatically,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Doctor, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, said Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Doctor, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What are they?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The rights of life and liberty,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is true, said Dr. Gresham;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Dr. Gresham, we have to live with these people, and the North is constantly irritating us by its criticisms."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The world, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You speak, said Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The negro, said Dr. Gresham, thoughtfully,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mohammedanism, with its imperfect creed, is successful in gathering large numbers of negroes beneath the Crescent, could not a legitimate commerce and the teachings of a pure Christianity have done as much to plant the standard of the Cross over the ramparts of sin and idolatry in Africa? Surely we cannot concede that the light of the Crescent is greater than the glory of the Cross, that there is less constraining power in the Christ of Calvary than in the Prophet of Arabia? I do not think that I underrate the difficulties in your way when I say that you young men are holding in your hands golden opportunities which it would be madness and folly to throw away. It is your grand opportunity to help build up a new South, not on the shifting sands of policy and expediency, but on the broad basis of equal justice and universal freedom. Do this and you will be blessed, and will make your life a blessing."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Very pleasantly, he replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was quite interested in that parson. Where was he educated?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In Oxford, I believe. I was pleased to hear him say that he had no white blood in his veins."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I should think not, replied Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't you think, asked Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The negro, said Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, replied Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, asked Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, replied Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, said Dr. Latrobe, proudly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And yet, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, said Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who tainted it? asked Dr. Latimer, bitterly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You give absolution to the fathers, and visit the misfortunes of the mothers upon the children."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Doctor, what kind of society would we have if we put down the bars and admitted everybody to social equality?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This idea of social equality, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I sometimes think that the final solution of this question will be the absorption of the negro into our race."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Never! never! exclaimed Dr. Latrobe, vehemently."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would be a death blow to American civilization."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Doctor, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doctor, it is no use talking, replied Dr. Latrobe, wearily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There are niggers who are as white as I am, but the taint of blood is there and we always exclude it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How do you know it is there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, there are tricks of blood which always betray them. My eyes are more practiced than yours. I can always tell them. Now, that Johnson is as white as any man; but I knew he was a nigger the moment I saw him. I saw it in his eye."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, said Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Deal justly with them, said Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doctor, said Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It can't come too soon,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Leroy, I am glad the great object of your life is accomplished, and that you have found all your relatives. Years have passed since we parted, years in which I have vainly tried to get a trace of you and have been baffled, but I have found you at last! Clasping her hand in his, he continued,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I would it were so that I should never lose you again! Iola, will you not grant me the privilege of holding this hand as mine all through the future of our lives? Your search for your mother is ended. She is well cared for. Are you not free at last to share with me my Northern home, free to be mine as nothing else on earth is mine. Dr. Gresham looked eagerly on Iola's face, and tried to read its varying expression."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, I learned to love you in the hospital. I have tried to forget you, but it has been all in vain. Your image is just as deeply engraven on my heart as it was the day we parted."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, she replied, sadly, but firmly, as she withdrew her hand from his,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel now as I felt then, that there is an insurmountable barrier between us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it, Iola?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is the public opinion which assigns me a place with the colored people."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But what right has public opinion to interfere with our marriage relations? Why should we yield to its behests?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because it is stronger than we are, and we cannot run counter to it without suffering its penalties."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And what are they, Iola? Shadows that you merely dread?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No! no! the penalties of social ostracism North and South, except here and there some grand and noble exceptions. I do not think that you fully realize how much prejudice against colored people permeates society, lowers the tone of our religion, and reacts upon the life of the nation. After freedom came, mamma was living in the city of A----, and wanted to unite with a Christian church there. She made application for membership. She passed her examination as a candidate, and was received as a church member. When she was about to make her first communion, she unintentionally took her seat at the head of the column. The elder who was administering the communion gave her the bread in the order in which she sat, but before he gave her the wine some one touched him on the shoulder and whispered a word in his ear. He then passed mamma by, gave the cup to others, and then returned to her. From that rite connected with the holiest memories of earth, my poor mother returned humiliated and depressed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What a shame!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have seen, continued Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Iola, I see no use in your persisting that you are colored when your eyes are as blue and complexion as white as mine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doctor, were I your wife, are there not people who would caress me as a white woman who would shrink from me in scorn if they knew I had one drop of negro blood in my veins? When mistaken for a white woman, I should hear things alleged against the race at which my blood would boil. No, Doctor, I am not willing to live under a shadow of concealment which I thoroughly hate as if the blood in my veins were an undetected crime of my soul."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Iola, dear, surely you paint the picture too darkly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doctor, I have painted it with my heart's blood. It is easier to outgrow the dishonor of crime than the disabilities of color. You have created in this country an aristocracy of color wide enough to include the South with its treason and Utah with its abominations, but too narrow to include the best and bravest colored man who bared his breast to the bullets of the enemy during your fratricidal strife. Is not the most arrant Rebel to-day more acceptable to you than the most faithful colored man?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No! no! exclaimed Dr. Gresham, vehemently."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are wrong. I belong to the Grand Army of the Republic. We have no separate State Posts for the colored people, and, were such a thing proposed, the majority of our members, I believe, would be against it. In Congress colored men have the same seats as white men, and the color line is slowly fading out in our public institutions."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But how is it in the Church?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Church is naturally conservative. It preserves old truths, even if it is somewhat slow in embracing new ideas. It has its social as well as its spiritual side. Society is woman's realm. The majority of church members are women, who are said to be the aristocratic element of our country. I fear that one of the last strongholds of this racial prejudice will be found beneath the shadow of some of our churches. I think, on account of this social question, that large bodies of Christian temperance women and other reformers, in trying to reach the colored people even for their own good, will be quicker to form separate associations than our National Grand Army, whose ranks are open to black and white, liberals and conservatives, saints and agnostics. But, Iola, we have drifted far away from the question. No one has a right to interfere with our marriage if we do not infringe on the rights of others."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, she replied, gently,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I feel that our paths must diverge. My life-work is planned. I intend spending my future among the colored people of the South."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear friend, he replied, anxiously,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am afraid that you are destined to sad disappointment. When the novelty wears off you will be disillusioned, and, I fear, when the time comes that you can no longer serve them they will forget your services and remember only your failings."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Doctor, they need me; and I am sure when I taught among them they were very grateful for my services."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, he replied,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not think so; and if I did it would not hinder me from doing all in my power to help them. I do not expect all the finest traits of character to spring from the hot-beds of slavery and caste. What matters it if they do forget the singer, so they don't forget the song? No, Doctor, I don't think that I could best serve my race by forsaking them and marrying you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, he exclaimed, passionately,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was, replied Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And is this your settled purpose?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is, Doctor, she replied, tenderly but firmly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I see no other. I must serve the race which needs me most."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps you are right, he replied;"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How, asked Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very much, indeed. It was excellent. He is a very talented young man. He sits next to me at lunch and I have conversed with him several times. He is very genial and attractive, only he seems to be rather cranky on the negro question. I hope if he comes South that he will not make the mistake of mixing up with the negroes. It would be throwing away his influence and ruining his prospects. He seems to be well versed in science and literature and would make a very delightful accession to our social life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, replied Dr. Gresham,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was delighted with your paper; it was full of thought and suggestion."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, answered Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you succeeded admirably, replied Dr. Latrobe."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I could not help thinking how much we owe to heredity and environment."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Dr. Gresham."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Continental Europe yearly sends to our shores subjects to be developed into citizens. Emancipation has given us millions of new citizens, and to them our influence and example should be a blessing and not a curse."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I intend to go South, and help those who so much need helpers from their own ranks."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope, answered Dr. Latrobe,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because in equalizing yourself with them you drag us down; and our social customs must be kept intact."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have been associating with me at the convention for several days; I do not see that the contact has dragged you down, has it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You! What has that got to do with associating with niggers?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The blood of that race is coursing through my veins. I am one of them,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; interposed Dr. Gresham, laughing heartily at Dr. Latrobe's discomfiture."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He belongs to that negro race both by blood and choice. His father's mother made overtures to receive him as her grandson and heir, but he has nobly refused to forsake his mother's people and has cast his lot with them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, well, said Dr. Latrobe, rising,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was never so deceived before. Good morning!"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mamma is not well, said Iola to Robert."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I spoke to her about sending for a doctor, but she objected and I did not insist."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will ask Dr. Latimer, whom I met at the Concordia, to step in. He is a splendid young fellow. I wish we had thousands like him."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am so uneasy about Harry, said Mrs. Leroy."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is so fearless and outspoken. I do wish the attention of the whole nation could be turned to the cruel barbarisms which are a national disgrace. I think the term 'bloody shirt' is one of the most heartless phrases ever invented to divert attention from cruel wrongs and dreadful outrages."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Harry wrote me only last week that a young friend of his had lost his situation because he refused to have his pupils strew flowers on the streets through which Jefferson Davis was to pass."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, said Dr. Latimer, indignantly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Some time next week,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And his presence will do you more good than all the medicine in my chest."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope, Doctor, said Mrs. Leroy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, Mrs. Leroy, I see you have found us all out."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Doctor, exclaimed Iola, with pleasing excitement,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is that so? She would make some man an excellent wife,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now isn't that perfectly manlike, answered Iola, smiling."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mamma, what do you think of that? Did any of you gentlemen ever see a young woman of much ability that you did not look upon as a flotsam all adrift until some man had appropriated her?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, Miss Leroy, that the world's work, if shared, is better done than when it is performed alone. Don't you think your life-work will be better done if some one shares it with you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That would depend on the person who shared it,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here, said Robert, a few evenings after this conversation, as he handed Iola a couple of letters,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Miss Delany and Harry will be here on Wednesday; and this one is an invitation which also adds to my enjoyment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is it? asked Marie;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No; but something which I value far more. We are all invited to Mr. Stillman's to a _conversazione_."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is the object?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "His object is to gather some of the thinkers and leaders of the race to consult on subjects of vital interest to our welfare. He has invited Dr. Latimer, Professor Gradnor, of North Carolina, Mr. Forest, of New York, Hon. Dugdale, Revs. Carmicle, Cantnor, Tunster, Professor Langhorne, of Georgia, and a few ladies, Mrs. Watson, Miss Brown, and others."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am glad that it is neither a hop nor a german, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Iola, asked Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, yes, answered Iola, seriously,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I believe in young people having amusements and recreations; but the times are too serious for us to attempt to make our lives a long holiday."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Iola, answered Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, replied Marie,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Some one, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If that be so, replied Marie,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good evening, Dr. Latimer, said Iola, cheerily, as she entered the room with Miss Lucille Delany."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This is my friend, Miss Delany, from Georgia. Were she not present I would say she is one of the grandest women in America."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am very much pleased to meet you, said Dr. Latimer, cordially;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have heard Miss Leroy speak of you. We were expecting you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is my brother, about whom mamma was so anxious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Had you a pleasant journey?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not especially, answered Miss Delany."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Southern roads are not always very pleasant to travel. When Mr. Leroy entered the cars at A----, where he was known, had he taken his seat among the white people he would have been remanded to the colored."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But after awhile, said Harry,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Caste plays such fantastic tricks in this country,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I tell Mr. Leroy, said Miss Delany,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Negro Emigration."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not believe self-exilement is the true remedy for the wrongs of the negro. Where should he go if he left this country?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go to Africa, replied Bishop Tunster, in his bluff, hearty tones."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I believe that Africa is to be redeemed to civilization, and that the negro is to be gathered into the family of nations and recognized as a man and a brother."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go to Africa? repeated Professor Langhorne, of Georgia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Does the United States own one foot of African soil? And have we not been investing our blood in the country for ages?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am in favor of missionary efforts, said Professor Gradnor, of North Carolina,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not believe, said Mr. Stillman,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "America, said Miss Delany,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Climate, soil, and physical environments, said Professor Gradnor,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, replied Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am always glad, said Mr. Forest, a tall, distinguished-looking gentleman from New York,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The negro, said Hon. Dugdale,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How many of us to-day, asked Professor Langhorne,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not believe, said Miss Delany,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "History, said Professor Langhorne,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We did not, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Patriotism,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Law, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, said Professor Gradnor,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I would have our people, said Miss Delany,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Our esteemed friend, Mrs. Watson, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Rallying Cry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let us have it now, answered Harry,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I second the motion,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why hast thou forsaken me?"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Education of Mothers."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I agree, said Rev. Eustace, of St. Mary's parish,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And enlightened fathers, too, added Miss Delany, quickly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If there is anything I chafe to see it is a strong, hearty man shirking his burdens, putting them on the shoulders of his wife, and taking life easy for himself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I always pity such mothers,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, said Miss Delany, with a flash in her eye and a ring of decision in her voice,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As she spoke, there was an expression which seemed to say,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And I would like to help do it!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not think, said Mrs. Stillman,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is a field of Christian endeavor which lies between the school-house and the pulpit, which needs the hand of a woman more in private than in public,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, I have often felt the need of such work in my own parish. We need a union of women with the warmest hearts and clearest brains to help in the moral education of the race,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In civilized society, replied Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Moral Progress of the Race, by Hon. Dugdale. He said:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The moral progress of the race was not all he could desire, yet he could not help feeling that, compared with other races, the outlook was not hopeless. I am so sorry to see, however, that in some States there is an undue proportion of colored people in prisons."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, answered Professor Langhorne, of Georgia,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "When I look, said Mr. Forest,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just now, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And in that civilization I believe the negro is to be an important factor,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I believe it also, said Miss Delany, hopefully,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My heart, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If, said Mrs. Leroy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And is there, continued Iola,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She is angelic!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She is strangely beautiful! Do you know her?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; I have met her several times. I accompanied her here to-night. The tones of her voice are like benedictions of peace; her words a call to higher service and nobler life."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Doctor, exclaimed Mrs. Stillman,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am delighted to see you. We were about to adjourn, but we will postpone action to hear from you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, replied Rev. Carmicle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have not the cue to the meeting, and will listen while I take breath."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pardon me, answered Mrs. Stillman."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I should have been more thoughtful than to press so welcome a guest into service before I had given him time for rest and refreshment; but if the courtesy failed on my lips it did not fail in my heart. I wanted our young folks to see one of our thinkers who had won distinction before the war."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear friend, said Rev. Carmicle, smiling,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But we need old men for counsel,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course, said Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How, asked Hon. Dugdale,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very hopeful, although at times I cannot help feeling anxious about their future. I was delighted with my visits to various institutions of learning, and surprised at the desire manifested among the young people to obtain an education. Where toil-worn mothers bent beneath their heavy burdens their more favored daughters are enjoying the privileges of education. Young people are making recitations in Greek and Latin where it was once a crime to teach their parents to read. I also became acquainted with colored professors and presidents of colleges. Saw young ladies who had graduated as doctors. Comfortable homes have succeeded old cabins of slavery. Vast crops have been raised by free labor. I read with interest and pleasure a number of papers edited by colored men. I saw it estimated that two millions of our people had learned to read, and I feel deeply grateful to the people who have supplied us with teachers who have stood their ground so nobly among our people."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, asked Mr. Forest,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "From the unfortunate conditions which slavery has entailed upon that section of our country. I dread the results of that racial feeling which ever and anon breaks out into restlessness and crime. Also, I am concerned about the lack of home training for those for whom the discipline of the plantation has been exchanged for the penalties of prisons and chain-gangs. I am sorry to see numbers of our young men growing away from the influence of the church and drifting into prisons. I also fear that in some sections, as colored men increase in wealth and intelligence, there will be an increase of race rivalry and jealousy. It is said that savages, by putting their ears to the ground, can hear a far-off tread. So, to-day, I fear that there are savage elements in our civilization which hear the advancing tread of the negro and would retard his coming. It is the incarnation of these elements that I dread. It is their elimination I do so earnestly desire. Whether it be outgrown or not is our unsolved problem. Time alone will tell whether or not the virus of slavery and injustice has too fully permeated our Southern civilization for a complete recovery. Nations, honey-combed by vice, have fallen beneath the weight of their iniquities. Justice is always uncompromising in its claims and inexorable in its demands. The laws of the universe are never repealed to accommodate our follies."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Surely, said Bishop Tunster,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We may not, answered Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And, said Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let us, replied Rev. Carmicle,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How did you enjoy the evening, Marie?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was interested and deeply pleased,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am sure, said Marie,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I would gladly welcome such a conference at any time. I think such meetings would be so helpful to our young people."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, said Iola, as they walked home from the _conversazione_,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wish I could do something more for our people than I am doing. I taught in the South till failing health compelled me to change my employment. But, now that I am well and strong, I would like to do something of lasting service for the race."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why not, asked Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I would do it, willingly, if I could; but one needs both leisure and money to make a successful book. There is material among us for the broadest comedies and the deepest tragedies, but, besides money and leisure, it needs patience, perseverance, courage, and the hand of an artist to weave it into the literature of the country."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Miss Leroy, you have a large and rich experience; you possess a vivid imagination and glowing fancy. Write, out of the fullness of your heart, a book to inspire men and women with a deeper sense of justice and humanity."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Doctor, replied Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I would do it if I could, not for the money it might bring, but for the good it might do. But who believes any good can come out of the black Nazareth?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Leroy, out of the race must come its own thinkers and writers. Authors belonging to the white race have written good racial books, for which I am deeply grateful, but it seems to be almost impossible for a white man to put himself completely in our place. No man can feel the iron which enters another man's soul."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Doctor, when I write a book I shall take you for the hero of my story."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, what have I done, asked Dr. Latimer, in a surprised tone,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have done nobly, answered Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I only did my duty,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My mother, replied Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you know her?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I know her and admire her; and she ought to be made the subject of a soul-inspiring story. Do you know of whom I speak?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How should I, Doctor? I am sure you have not made me your confidante,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you all alone, asked Robert, one night, as he entered the cosy little parlor where Iola sat reading."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where are the rest of the folks?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mamma and grandma have gone to bed, answered Iola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Harry and Lucille are at the concert. They are passionately fond of music, and find facilities here that they do not have in the South. They wouldn't go to hear a seraph where they must take a negro seat. I was too tired to go. Besides, 'two's company and three's a crowd,'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon you struck the nail on the head that time, said Robert, laughing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But you have not been alone all the time. Just as I reached the corner I saw Dr. Latimer leaving the door. I see he still continues his visits. Who is his patient now?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Uncle Robert, said Iola, smiling and flushing,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose the case is now an affair of the heart. But I cannot blame him for it, he added, looking fondly on the beautiful face of his niece, which sorrow had touched only to chisel into more loveliness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How do you like him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I must have within me, answered Iola, with unaffected truthfulness,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, answered Robert, smiling archly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I tell him, continued Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Some one, said Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think, said Iola,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Iola, think of the advantages he set aside. It was no sacrifice for me to remain colored, with my lack of education and race sympathies, but Dr. Latimer had doors open to him as a white man which are forever closed to a colored man. To be born white in this country is to be born to an inheritance of privileges, to hold in your hands the keys that open before you the doors of every occupation, advantage, opportunity, and achievement."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know that, uncle, answered Iola;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am afraid, said Robert, laying his hand caressingly upon her head,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, uncle, how you talk! I never dreamed of what you are thinking,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And how, asked Robert,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear uncle, I'm not blind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Neither am I,"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I expect to go South,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, indeed, said Iola, assuming an air of interest, while a shadow flitted over her face."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where do you expect to pitch your tent?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In the city of C----, North Carolina,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, I wish, she exclaimed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I suppose if he were to hear you he would laugh, and say that he could take care of himself. But I know a better plan than that."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That you will commit yourself, instead of your brother, to my care."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, dear, replied Iola, drawing a long breath."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What would mamma say?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That she would willingly resign you, I hope."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And what would grandma and Uncle Robert say?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That they would cheerfully acquiesce. Now, what would I say if they all consent?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Could deeds my love discover, Could valor gain thy charms, To prove myself thy lover I'd face a world in arms."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And prove a good soldier, added Iola, smiling,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, I am in earnest, said Dr. Latimer, passionately."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In the work to which I am devoted every burden will be lighter, every path smoother, if brightened and blessed with your companionship."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I must have time to think."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Miss Iola, I think that you brood too much over the condition of our people."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Perhaps I do, she replied,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am afraid, replied Dr. Latimer,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because, she answered,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can see breakers ahead which they do not."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, give yourself no uneasiness. They will catch the fret and fever of the nineteenth century soon enough. I have heard several of our ministers say that it is chiefly men of disreputable characters who are made the subjects of violence and lynch-law."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Suppose it is so, responded Iola, feelingly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If these men believe in eternal punishment they ought to feel a greater concern for the wretched sinner who is hurried out of time with all his sins upon his head, than for the godly man who passes through violence to endless rest."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is true; and I am not counseling you to be selfish; but, Miss Iola, had you not better look out for yourself?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, Doctor, I am feeling quite well."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know it, but your devotion to study and work is too intense,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am preparing to teach, and must spend my leisure time in study. Mr. Cloten is an excellent employer, and treats his employés as if they had hearts as well as hands. But to be an expert accountant is not the best use to which I can put my life."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "As a teacher you will need strong health and calm nerves. You had better let me prescribe for you. You need, he added, with a merry twinkle in his eyes,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Doctor, said Iola, laughing,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, replied Dr. Latimer, with affected gravity,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you wish me to try the faith cure?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, faith in me,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, here we are at home! exclaimed Iola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This has been a glorious evening, Doctor. I am indebted to you for a great pleasure. I am extremely grateful."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are perfectly welcome, replied Dr. Latimer."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The pleasure has been mutual, I assure you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you not come in?"
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am not an adept in courtly phrases. I am a plain man, who believes in love and truth. In asking you to share my lot, I am not inviting you to a life of ease and luxury, for year after year I may have to struggle to keep the wolf from the door, but your presence would make my home one of the brightest spots on earth, and one of the fairest types of heaven. Am I presumptuous in hoping that your love will become the crowning joy of my life?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Frank, I love you."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Iola, Dr. Latimer has called to see you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Has he? answered Iola, a glad light coming into her eyes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come, Lucille, let us go into the parlor."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, no, interposed Harry, shrugging his shoulders and catching Lucille's hand."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He didn't ask for you. When we went to the concert we were told three's a crowd. And I say one good turn deserves another."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Harry, you are so full of nonsense. Let Lucille go!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Indeed I will not. I want to have a good time as well as you,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, you're the most nonsensical man I know,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're looking very bright and happy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My ride in the park was so refreshing! I enjoyed it so much! The day was so lovely, the air delicious, the birds sang so sweetly, and the sunset was so magnificent."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am glad of it. Why, Iola, your home is so happy your heart should be as light as a school-girl's."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, she replied,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I must be prematurely old. I have scarcely known what it is to be light-hearted since my father's death."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I know it, darling, he answered, seating himself beside her, and drawing her to him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have been tried in the fire, but are you not better for the crucial test?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Doctor, she replied,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Doctor, you cannot conceive what it must have been to be hurled from a home of love and light into the dark abyss of slavery; to be compelled to take your place among a people you have learned to look upon as inferiors and social outcasts; to be in the power of men whose presence would fill you with horror and loathing, and to know that there is no earthly power to protect you from the highest insults which brutal cowardice could shower upon you. I am so glad that no other woman of my race will suffer as I have done."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Darling, he said, his voice vibrating with mingled feelings of tenderness and resentment,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was indeed! For awhile I was like one dazed. I tried to pray, but the heavens seemed brass over my head. I was wild with agony, and had I not been placed under conditions which roused all the resistance of my soul, I would have lost my reason."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Was it not a mistake to have kept you ignorant of your colored blood?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was the great mistake of my father's life, but dear papa knew something of the cruel, crushing power of caste; and he tried to shield us from it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, yes, replied Dr. Latimer, thoughtfully,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never blame him, because I know he did it for the best. Had he lived he would have taken us to France, where I should have had a life of careless ease and pleasure. But now my life has a much grander significance than it would have had under such conditions. Fearful as the awakening was, it was better than to have slept through life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Best for you and best for me, said Dr. Latimer."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There are souls that never awaken; but if they miss the deepest pain they also lose the highest joy."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How'dy, honey! I'se so glad you's come. I seed it in a vision dat somebody fair war comin' to help us. An' wen I yered it war you, I larffed and jist rolled ober, and larffed and jist gib up."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Aunt Linda, I am not very fair,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, chile, you's fair to me. How's all yore folks in de up kentry?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "All well. I expect them down soon to live here."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What, Har'yet, and Robby, an' yer ma? Oh, dat is too good. I allers said Robby had san' in his craw, and war born for good luck. He war a mighty nice boy. Har'yet's in clover now. Well, ebery dorg has its day, and de cat has Sunday. I allers tole Har'yet ter keep a stiff upper lip; dat it war a long road dat had no turn."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I ain't goin' to let her do nuffin till she gits seasoned. She looks as sweet as a peach. I allers wanted some nice lady to come down yere and larn our gals some sense. I can't read myself, but I likes ter yere dem dat can."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Aunt Linda, I am going to teach in the Sunday-school, help in the church, hold mothers' meetings to help these boys and girls to grow up to be good men and women. Won't you get a pair of spectacles and learn to read?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, yer can't git dat book froo my head, no way you fix it. I knows nuff to git to hebben, and dat's all I wants to know."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This thing is getting very monotonous,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, I enjoy it! replied Miss Delany."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "These stately pines look so grand and solemn, they remind me of a procession of hooded monks."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What in the world are you talking about, Lucille?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "About those pine-trees,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pshaw, I wasn't thinking about them. I'm thinking about Iola and Frank."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What about them?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, when I was in P----, Dr. Latimer used to be first-rate company, but now it is nothing but what Iola wants, and what Iola says, and what Iola likes. I don't believe that there is a subject I could name to him, from spinning a top to circumnavigating the globe, that he wouldn't somehow contrive to bring Iola in. And I don't believe you could talk ten minutes to Iola on any subject, from dressing a doll to the latest discovery in science, that she wouldn't manage to lug in Frank."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, you absurd creature! responded Lucille,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am in love now,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "With whom?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "With you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Harry! she exclaimed, playfully resisting."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't be so nonsensical! Don't you think the bride looked lovely, with that dress of spotless white and with those orange blossoms in her hair?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, she did; that's a fact, responded Harry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Lucille, I think there is a great deal of misplaced sentiment at weddings,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How so?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, here are a couple just married, and who are as happy as happy can be; and people will crowd around them wishing much joy; but who thinks of wishing joy to the forlorn old bachelors and restless old maids?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Harry, if you want people to wish you much happiness, why don't you do as the doctor has done, get yourself a wife?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will, he replied, soberly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Harry, don't be so absurd."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Indeed there isn't a bit of absurdity about what I say. I am in earnest."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think it was Charles Lamb, replied Lucille,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You will make me uncomfortable by not marrying me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, replied Lucille,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My mother, replied Harry, with an air of confidence,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And Iola, would she be satisfied?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, it would add to her satisfaction. She is not one who can't be white and won't be black."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, then, replied Lucille,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will take the question of your comfort into consideration."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good Doctor. But he is more than a successful doctor; he is a true patriot and a good citizen. Honest, just, and discriminating, he endeavors by precept and example to instill into the minds of others sentiments of good citizenship. He is a leader in every reform movement for the benefit of the community; but his patriotism is not confined to race lines."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The world is his country, and mankind his countrymen."
}
] |
12352
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Only waiting till the angels Open wide the mystic gate."
}
] |
831898
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Duke and the Army,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then I say once for all, that priest shall never darken my doors again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then I say they are my doors and not yours, and that holy man shall brighten them whenever he will."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, Sir Ralph, I love to gallop; and this sorry business it gives me an excuse."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Lie still, sir, if you please,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The fox, said she:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I looked at him, said she,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Couple up and go home to supper, said Miss Peyton, quietly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The fox is half-way to Gallowstree Gorse, and you won't get him out of that this afternoon, I promise you."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Halt! in the King's name,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What! have they killed?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not they; he is in the middle of Gallowstree Gorse by now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And is this the way to Gallowstree Gorse?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, mistress, said the young man;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Follow the slower, it seems."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Say the lovelier and the dearer, sweet Kate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, Griffith, you know I hate flattery,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Flattery? said the lover."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have no tongue to speak half your praise. I think the people in this country are as blind as bats, or they'd--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All except Mr. Griffith Gaunt; he has found a paragon where wiser people see a wayward, capricious girl."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then _he_ is the man for you. Don't you see that, mistress?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, I don't quite see that,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, Kate, my dear Kate, what, could you love any man but me? Could you be so cruel?--could you? There, let me get off my horse, and lie down on this stubble, and you ride over me, and trample me to death. I would rather have you trample on my ribs, than on my heart with loving any one but me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, what now? said Catherine, drawing herself up."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I must scold you handsomely; and she drew rein and turned full upon him; but by this means she saw his face was full of real distress; so, instead of reprimanding him, she said gently,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, Griffith, what is to do? Are you not my servant? Do not I send you word whenever I dine from home?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, dearest; and then I call at that house, and stick there till they guess what I would be at, and ask me too."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, replied Griffith,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "said he piteously,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you have no cause, said Catherine, soothingly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nobody, except yourself, doubts my affection for you. You are often thrown in my teeth, Griffith--and (clenching her own) I like you all the better--of course."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Six hundred acres, Kate, besides the park and paddocks."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why, what matters it which of us has the dross, so that there is enough for both?"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, honest folk get to heaven by different roads,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been taught otherwise,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then give me your hand and I'll give you my soul, said Griffith Gaunt, impetuously."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll go to heaven your way, if you can't go mine. Anything sooner than be parted in this world, or the next."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is not their business; it is ours,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, then, said Catherine, sadly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I suppose I must tell you the true reason; I feel I should not make you happy; I do not love you quite as you want to be loved, as you deserve to be loved. You need not look so; nothing in flesh and blood is your rival. But my heart it bleeds for the church I think of her ancient glory in this kingdom, and, when I see her present condition, I long to devote myself to her service. I am very fit to be an abbess or a nun; most unfit to be a wife. No, no; I must not, ought not, dare not, many a Protestant. Take the advice of one who esteems you dearly; leave me--fly from me --forget me--do everything but hate me. Nay, do not hate me: you little know the struggle in my mind. Farewell; the saints, whom you scorn, watch over and protect you: farewell."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Catherine, said he, resolutely,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh! as you will,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Griffith, said she, softly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Kate, said the young man, firmly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am courting you this two years. If I wait two years more it will be but to see the right man come and carry you in a month; for so girls are won when they are won at all. Your sister that is married and dead she held Josh Pitt in hand for years; and what is the upshot? Why, he wears the willow for her to this day; and her husband, he married again before her grave was green. Nay, I have done all an honest man can do to woo you; so take me now or let me go."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Once out of sight of this place I may cure myself of my fancy. Here I never could."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh! said Catherine, directly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Think how we should all miss you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh! said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, indeed! said Catherine, with some surprise: then, like the quick-witted girl she was,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She then, with a charming smile, begged him to inform her who was his destined successor in her esteem. Griffith colored purple at her cool hypocrisy (for such he considered it), and replied, almost fiercely,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And he toasts you by name wherever he goes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can I help that? Wait till I toast him before you make yourself ridiculous, and me very angry--about nothing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mistress Alice Peyton shilly-shallied with her true lover for years--till Richard Hilton came that was not fit to tie his shoes, and then--. Catherine cut him short:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Affront me, if nothing less will serve; but spare my sister in her grave. She began this sentence angrily, but concluded it in a broken voice. Griffith was half disarmed; but only half. He answered sullenly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She did not die till she had jilted an honest gentleman and broken his heart, and married a sot, to her cost. And you are of her breed, when all is done; and now that young coxcomb has come, like Dick Hilton, between you and me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But I do not encourage him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You do not _dis_courage him, retorted Griffith,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I may have been imprudent, she murmured."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The young gentleman made me smile with his extravagance. I never thought to be misunderstood by him, far less by you. Then, suddenly, bold as brass,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ay, forsooth! and have it cast in my teeth I was a jealous monster, and played the tyrant before my time. A poor fellow scarce knows what to be at, that loves a coquette."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Coquette I am none,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He said to me, 'Watch your Kate close, and, at the first blush of a rival, say you to her, part with him, or part with me.'"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And this is how you take Joshua Pitt's advice; by offering to run away from this sorry rival."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, but, stammered he at last,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I cannot bear it, he gasped."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Choose you now once for all between that puppy there and me,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He either fears his fate too much, Or his deserts are small; Who fears to put it to the touch, To win or lose it all."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I prefer _you_--though you speak harshly to me, sir,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then give me your hand with that man in sight, and end my torments: promise to marry me this very week. Ah, Kate! have pity on your poor faithful servant who has loved you so long."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do, Griffith, I do, said she sweetly;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He soon will then."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, no; I declare I will be very cool to him after what you have said to me. But I cannot marry you neither. I dare not. Listen to me, and do pray govern your temper as I am doing mine. I have often read of men with a passion for jealousy--I mean men whose jealousy feeds upon air, and defies reason. I know you now for such a man. Marriage would not cure this madness, for wives do not escape admiration any more than maids. Something tells me you would be jealous of every fool that paid me some stale compliment, jealous of my female friends, and jealous of my relations, and perhaps jealous of your own children, and of that holy persecuted church which must still have a large share of my heart. No, no; your face and your words have shown me a precipice. I tremble, and draw back, and now I never _will_ marry at all; from this day I give myself to the church."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is your answer to me, said he bitterly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When the right man puts the question (and he is not far off) you will tell another tale. You take me for a fool, and you mock me: you are not the lass to die an old maid, and men are not the fools to let you. With faces like yours the new servant comes before the first one is gone. Well, I have got my answer. County Cumberland, you are no place for me. The ways and the fields we two have rid together, oh how could I bear their sight without my dear? Why what a poor-spirited fool am I to stay and whine! Come, mistress, your lover waits you there, and your discarded servant knows good breeding: he leaves the country not to spoil your sport."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, sir, said she,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I were a brute else, sighed the jealous one, with a sudden revulsion of feeling."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have spent the happiest hours of my life beside you. If I loved thee less I had never left thee."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My curse on him that parts us twain! And you, Kate, may God bless you single, and curse you married: and that is my last word in Cumberland."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Amen,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mistress Kate, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why? repeated old Joe, a little contemptuously."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, where have _you_ been not to know the country is out after un? First comed Jock Dennet, with his horse all in a lather, to say old Mr. Charlton was took ill, and had asked for Master Griffith. I told him to go to Dogmore Copse: 'our Kate is a hunting, to-day,' says I, and your Griffith he is sure not to be far from her gelding's tail;' a stick in his spurs and away a goes: what, han't you seen Jock neither?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, no, replied Miss Peyton, impatiently:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The matter, quo she! Why Jock hadn't been gone an hour when in rides the new footman all in a lather, and brings a letter for Master Griffith from the old gentleman's housekeeper: ‘you leave the letter with me, in case,' says I, and I sends him a field after t'other. Here be the letter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Alas! said she,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "See-ho! roared the jovial Squire."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've found the hare on her form: bide thou outside a moment. And he entered the room; but he had no sooner closed the door than his whole manner changed from loud and jovial to agitated and subdued."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Kate, my girl, said he, piteously,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been a bad father to thee. I have spent all the money that should have been thine; thy poor father can scarce look thee in the face. So now I bring thee a good husband: be a good child now, and a dutiful. Neville's Court is his, and Neville's Cross will be, by the entail; and so will the baronetcy. I shall see my girl Lady Neville."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Never, papa, never,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hush! hush! said the Squire, and put up his hand to her in great agitation and alarm:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "he whispered,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Papa! how _could_ you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Here, try your own luck, youngster, he cried at the door."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She knows my mind."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "and said as coldly as she could,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I esteem you, sir, and cannot but be flattered by sentiments so superior to those I am used to hear; but let this go no further. I shall never marry now."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Alas! I was born to make all those I esteem, unhappy;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not a bit of it, said he;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Spare me this pain, she faltered; and she looked through the window and thought,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Poor Griffith was right after all, and I was wrong. He had cause for jealousy, and CAUSE FOR FEAR."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's some other man at the bottom of this,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mistress Kate, said he, gently,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not come here to make you weep. I love you like a gentleman; if you love another, take courage, tell me so, and don't let your father constrain your inclinations. Dearly as I love you, I would not wed your person and your heart another's; that would be too cruel to you, and (drawing himself up with sudden majesty) too unjust to myself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is one I--esteem."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is no one I love enough to wed, said she."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am a cold-hearted girl, born to give pain to my betters. But I shall do something desperate to end all this."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All what?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The whole thing; my unprofitable life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mistress Kate, said Neville,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I asked you was there another man. If you had answered me 'In truth there is, but he is poor and my father is averse,' or the like; then I would have stood his friend, for your sake. But you say there is no man you love. Then I say you shall be Dame Neville."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What, whether I will or no?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes; whether you _think_ you will or no."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have had a good master. Why did you not come to me sooner?"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sweetest, it is not an hour too late, as you do not love another,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Excuse me, said she,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The one that gentleman on horseback has just taken. Surely, she continued,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Certainly not, said George, following the direction of her finger,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Bolton lies to the right. That road takes to the sea-coast by Otterbury and Stanhope."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I thought so, said Kate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How unfortunate! He cannot know. But indeed how should he?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who cannot know? and what? you speak in riddles, mistress; and how pale you are; are you ill?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, not ill, sir, faltered Kate;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You _talk_ like a preux chevalier; I wonder whether you would ride five or six miles to do me a service?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay; a thousand; said the young man, glowing with pleasure."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is to do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see that gentleman on horseback. Well, I happen to know he is leaving the country: he thinks that he--that I--that Mr. Charlton has many years to live. He must be told Mr. Charlton is dead, and his presence is required at Bolton Hall. I _should_ like somebody to gallop after him, and give him this letter: but my own horse is tired, and I am tired--and, to be frank, there is a little coolness between the gentleman himself and me; oh, I wish him no ill, but really I am not upon terms--I do not feel complaisant enough to carry a letter after him; yet I do feel that he _must_ have it: do not _you_ think it would be malicious and unworthy in me to keep the news from him, when I know it is so?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, mistress, why so many words? Give me your letter, and I will soon overtake the gentleman: he seems in no great hurry."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An excellent jest, mistress,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why what is the matter?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh not much, said George, with a bitter sneer."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is an old story; only I thought you were nobler than the rest of your sex. This letter is to Mr. Griffith Gaunt."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, sir,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And Mr. Griffith Gaunt is a suitor of yours."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Say, _was._ He is so no longer. He and I are out. But for that, think you I had even listened to--what you have been saying to me this ever so long?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, that alters the case, said George."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But stay!"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stay, said he stiffly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You say Mr. Gaunt and you are out."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And he is leaving the country. Perhaps this letter is to keep him from leaving the country?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Only until he has buried his benefactor,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mistress Kate, said he, after a significant pause,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you admire the character of Célimène?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You do not. How can you? She was too much your inferior. She never sent one of her lovers with a letter to the other to stop his flight. Well, you may eclipse Célimène; but permit me to remind you that I am George Neville, and not Georges Dandin."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not understand these bitter words: I have no lover at all: I never will have one again. But it is hard to think I cannot make a friend, nor keep a friend."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, do not weep so, Mistress Kate, said he hurriedly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come, take courage. I am not jealous of Mr. Gaunt; a man that hath been two years dangling after you, and could not win you. I look but to my own self-respect in the matter. I know your sex better than you know yourselves: were I to carry that letter you would thank me now, but by and by despise me; now as I mean you to be my wife, I will not risk your contempt. 'Why not take my horse, put who you like on him, and so convey the letter to Mr. Gaunt?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, no, she would not be beholden to him for anything; he had spoken harshly to her, and misjudged her cruelly, cruelly: oh! oh! oh!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will be back anon. But, once she got clear, she opened the door again, and peeped in at him gaily, and said she,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why not ask me who _wrote_ the letter before you compared me to that French coquette?"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "She tells me she has borrowed your horse, said the Squire,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She is an angel! cried the lover, all his ardor revived by this unexpected trait;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have been once upon a time in your plight;"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah! good-bye, little farm, he sighed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Good-bye, little brook! said he:"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am afraid, said she, very coldly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He asked for you: and messengers are out after you on every side. You must go to Bolton at once."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well a day! said Griffith,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because you will be an ungrateful wretch else. What, leave others to carry your kinsman and your benefactor to his grave; while you turn your back on him--and inherit his estate?--For shame, sir! for shame!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How hardly you judge me. What are Bolton Hall and Park to me now? They were to have been yours, you know. And yours they shall be. I came between and robbed you. To be sure the old man knew my mind: he said to himself, 'Griffith or Kate, what matters it who has the land? they will live together on it. But all that is changed now; you will never share it with me; and so I do feel I have no right to the place. Kate, my own Kate, I have heard them sneer at you for being poor, and it made my heart ache. I'll stop that anyway. Go you in my place to the funeral: he that is dead will forgive me; his spirit knows now what I endure: and I'll send you a writing, all sealed and signed, shall make Bolton Hall and Park yours: and, when you are happy with some one you can love, as well as I love you, think sometimes of poor jealous Griffith, that loved you dear and grudged you nothing; but, grinding his teeth and turning white,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I _can't_ live in Cumberland, and see you in another man's arms."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will make me _hate_ you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "God forbid!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well then don't thwart me, and provoke me so, but just turn your horse's head and go quietly home to Bolton Hall, and do your duty to the dead and the living. You can't go _this_ way for me and my horse: then, seeing him waver, this virago faltered out,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nay, nay, cried Griffith, all in a flutter:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll go without more words: as I am a gentleman I will sleep at Bolton this night, and will do my duty to the dead and the living. Don't you cry, sweetest: I give in. I find I have no will but yours."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now tell me one thing, stammered Griffith, with a most ghastly attempt at cheerful indifference."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How--do you--happen to be--on George Neville's horse?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What was I to do, Griffith? And now, added she, hastily,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, he is gone long ago: remembered, all of a sudden, he had promised to dine with a neighbor."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How did he go? on foot?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Be it all right about the grey horse, Master?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What of him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He be gone to Neville Court, Mistress. But I suppose (with a horrid leer) it is all right. Master Neville told me all about it. He said, says he, 'Some do break a kine or the likes on those here joyful occasions; other some do exchange gold rings. Your young Mistress and me, toe exchange nags. She takes my pieball; I take her grey;' says he. 'Saddle him for me, Joe,' says he, 'and wish me joy.' So I clapped Master Neville's saddle on the grey, and a gave me a golden guinea a did, and I was so struck of a heap I let un go without wishing on him joy; but I hollered it arter un, as hard as I could. How you looks! It be all right, baint it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The piebald, said he,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The good-humored wretch! said she to herself."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If Griffith ever goes away again, he will have me, whether I like or no. No lady could resist the monster long, without some other man at hand to help her."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "and who should ride into the yard of the"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Roebuck"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Neville has bought the grey nag; and cost him dear, it did."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is a falsehood,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nay, said Galton,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I had it on the best authority: but you shall not quarrel with me about it; the lady is nought to me, and I but tell the tale as 'twas told to me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then who told it you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why it is all over the county, for that matter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No subterfuges, sir. I am the lady's servant, and you know it: this report, it slanders her, and insults me: give me the author, or I'll lay my hunting whip on your bones."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Two can play at that game,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was Neville himself told me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah! said Griffith;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought so. He is a liar, and a coward."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I would not advise you to tell _him_ so, said the other, maliciously:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where is the man?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How should I know?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where did you leave him five minutes ago?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You must come with me, sir, if you please,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, with all my heart, said the other;"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He tells me you told him Miss Peyton has exchanged horses with you. --"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh! you indiscreet person, said George, shaking his finger playfully at Galton.--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And, by the same token, has plighted her troth to you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Worse and worse, said George."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Galton, I'll never trust you with any secrets again. Besides, you exaggerate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come, sir, said Griffith, sternly:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll have your life for those two words,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is not for me to bandy foul terms with a Cumberland savage, said he."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Name your time and place."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will. Ned Galton, you may go, I wish to say a few words in private to Mr. Neville."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No violence, gentlemen: consider."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nonsense, said Neville."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Gaunt and I are going to fight: we are not going to brawl. Be so good as to leave us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay, said Griffith:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Cumberland savage has been better taught than to expose the lady he loves to gossiping tongues."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The least you can do is to avoid fresh scandal."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I shall be happy to co-operate with you so far, said Neville, stiffly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I undertake to keep Galton silent: and for the rest, we have only to name an early hour for meeting, and confide it to but one discreet friend apiece who will attend us to the field. Then there will be no gossip, and no bumpkins nor constables breaking in--such things have happened in this county, I hear."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Justicing day"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, well, thought Griffith,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In five minutes,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In a word, said he,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have brought the money; and you must give in for this once, and let me lend it him without more ado."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No more of this base borrowing,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, then, said Houseman,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Excuse me: that would be dishonest, said Kate;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have no money to repay you with."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But you have expectations."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, not I."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I beg your pardon."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Methinks I should know, sir. What expectations have I? and from whom?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are jesting, methinks, good Mr. Houseman,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nay, dear Mistress Kate, I wish you too well to jest on such a theme."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mistress Kate, said he,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, my dear young lady, said he, warmly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have good news for you: only, mind, not a living soul must ever know it from your lips. Why, I am going to do for you what I never did in my life before; going to tell you something that passed yesterday in my office. But then I know you: you are a young lady out of a thousand: I can trust you to be discreet, and silent; can I not?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As the grave."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, then, my young mistress--in truth it was like a play, though the scene was but a lawyer's office--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Was it? cried Kate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you set me all of a flutter: you must sup here, and sleep here. Nay, nay, said she, her eyes sparkling with animation,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll take no denial. My father dines abroad: we shall have the house to ourselves."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The said Griffith, on entering my room seemed moved, and I might say, distempered; and did not give himself time to salute me and receive my obeisance, but addressed me abruptly and said as follows: 'Mr. Houseman, I am come to make my will.'"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Dear me!"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, when I came to examine his masterpiece, I found he had taken advantage of my pliability to attach an unreasonable condition: to wit, that the said Catherine should forfeit all interest under this will in case she should ever marry a certain party therein nominated, specified, and described."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now that was Griffith all over,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The paper writing now produced and shown to me--tush! what am I saying?--I mean the paper writing I now produce and show to you is the draft of the will aforesaid, in the handwriting of the testator."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I, Griffith Gaunt, late of the Eyrie, and now residing at Bolton Hall, in the county of Cumberland, being sound in body and mind, do deliver this as my last Will and Testament. I give and bequeath all the property real or personal, which I now possess or may hereafter become entitled to, to my dear friend and mistress, Catherine Peyton, daughter of Edward Peyton, Esquire, of Peyton Hall; provided always that the said Catherine Peyton shall at no time within the next ten years marry George Neville, of Neville's Court, in this county. But should the said Catherine marry the said George within ten years of this day, then I leave all my said property, in possession, remainder, or reversion, to my Heir-at-law."
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What, that is not all then?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then tell me all, pray tell me all,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am here to that end,"
}
] |
57685
|
Unknown Title
|
Unknown Author
|
[
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Neville, after such gracious civilities as his native breeding and foreign travel have taught him, came to business and requested me--to draw his will."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "La!"
}
] |
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