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| title
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|---|---|---|---|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It has got to be put through now, said the first of them, with a little ring in his voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We want a locomotive and a calaboose to take us to Boynton, and we are quite willing to pay anything reasonable."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It can't be done. We have only the one loco here, and she is wanted to shove the west-bound train up the long grade to the hills."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess that train will have to get through alone to-night,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't feel like arguing with you. You can't have the loco."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No? said the homesteader, with a little laugh."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, I figure you're mistaken. We have taken charge of her already and only want the bill. If you don't believe me, call your engineer."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pete!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can't come."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are going to be sorry for this, Mr. Grant, he said and then tried to slip away, but one of the others pulled the door to and stood with his back to it while Grant, smiling, said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm quite willing to take my chances. Have the stock-cars passed Perry's siding?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, hadn't you better call them up and see? We are giving you the first chance of doing it out of courtesy, but one of us is a good operator."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was on the Baltimore and Ohio road, said one man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You needn't play any tricks with me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stock train left Birch Hollow. No sign of her yet."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's all right, said the man who had served the B. and O."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell them to side-track her for half an hour, anyway, after your loco comes through. It's necessary. Don't worry 'bout any questions, but tell them to keep us a clear road, now."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Make out your bill,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said the agent;"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It strikes me there is very little law in this country now, and your company would a good deal sooner have the dollars than a letter telling them you had let us take one of their locomotives away from you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That, said the agent reflectively,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would not be advisable for you to wire any of the folks along the line to stop us, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We are going through to Boynton as fast as your engineer can shove his loco along, and if anybody switched us into a side-track it would only mean the smashing up of a good deal of the company's property."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you can hold your tongue and get us through to Boynton five minutes under the mail schedule time, the dollars are yours,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, he said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You'll have to do better,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Wait till we have got her warmed up, said the man, who stood quietly intent, his lean hand on the throttle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you'll see something."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, it's bracing. The last few months were making me a little sick of everything--but this gets hold of one. Grant smiled, but Breckenridge saw how weary his bronzed face showed in the dim lantern light."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There was a time, two or three years ago, when I might have felt it as you seem to do, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't seem to have any feeling but tiredness left me now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You can't let go,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, and Grant sighed,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is she making good enough time to suit you? Perry's siding is just ahead, and we'll be on the Bitter Creek trestle five minutes after that,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You feel tolerably sure Harper was right about the bridge?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What if he was mistaken, and they meant to try there after all? There are eight of us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We have got to take the risk, said Grant very quietly,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's the stock train, any way. And now for the bridge!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That was the easiest half of it. Muller was there--I saw him--and he could have warned the agent at the last minute,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are almost on the bridge now,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Feeling kind of sick? he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, it's against the regulations, but there's something that might fix you as well as tea in that can."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The fact is, I have never travelled on a locomotive before, and when I took on the contract I didn't quite know all I was letting myself in for,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How far are we off the long down grade with the curve in it?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We might get there in 'bout ten minutes,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Slacken up before you reach the grade and put your headlamp out, said Grant."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want you to stop just this side of the curve, and wait for me five minutes."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, there's a good deal I don't understand about all this. What do you want me to stop there for?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see why you should worry. It does not concern you. Any way, I have hired this special, and I give you my word that nothing I am going to do will cause the least damage to any of the company's property. I want you to stop, lend me a lantern, and sit tight in the cab until I tell you to go on. We will make it two dollars a minute."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know what you are after, but I guess I can take your word, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You seem that kind of a man."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's Larry!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Stop where you are, said Grant sharply as one man made a move."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't want to shoot any of you, but I most certainly will if you make me. Are there any more of you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And that is as far as you have got? he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Take up your hammer and drive the wood key in. Get hold of their rifles, Charley. I guess they are under that coat."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hammer the wedges in, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It was pure foolishness made me come here to save you from the cavalry who had heard of what you meant to do, because we have no use for men of your kind in this country. You haven't even sense enough to keep your rifles handy, and there will be two or three less of you to worry decent folks if you keep us waiting."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are with Larry, and don't feel like fooling. Hadn't you better start in?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Go on in front of us, and take your tools along! It will not be nice for the man who tries to get away,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Take us through to Boynton as fast as you can."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is a big load off your mind,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess we'll lock them in the back store until morning, he said, after a short conference apart with Grant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A little cooling down is not going to do them much harm, and I don't think anyone could get out without an axe."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess you had better get up at once,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pacific Slope, said the storekeeper."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wages are high just now, and they seemed quite afraid of you. The west-bound fast freight stopped here for water about two hours ago, and it was snowing that thick nobody would see them getting into a box car. They heave a few dry goods out here occasionally."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You seem relieved."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, said Grant, with a little shake of his shoulders."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If they have lit out of the country it will content me. I have had quite enough hard things to do lately."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You didn't mean--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I didn't mean to let them go, but I'm glad they've gone, Grant answered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We made a warning of one of the cattle-barons' men, and the man who takes the law into his own hands is doubly bound to do the square thing all round. If he does less, he is piling up a bigger reckoning than I would care to face."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have only told us that you didn't find the train-wreckers, and you know we are just dying with curiosity,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "One would scarcely fancy you were dying of anything, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In fact, it would be difficult to imagine any of you looking better. I wonder if you know that with the way that the light falls that dusky panelling forms a most effective background, Miss Schuyler?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are not to be put off. Tell us what you found--and you needn't have any diffidence: we are quite accustomed to hearing the most astonishing things at Cedar."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The trouble is that I didn't find anything. I spent several most unpleasant hours watching a railroad-trestle in blinding snow, until the cattle-train went by in safety. Nobody seemed to have the slightest wish to meddle with it."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What did you do then?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I and the boys then decided it would be advisable to look for a ranch where we could get food and shelter, and had some difficulty in finding one. In the morning, we made our way back to the depot, and discovered that a gentleman you know had hired a locomotive a little while after the cattle-train started."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, of course! ejaculated Chris Allonby."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wanted to stake five dollars with Clavering that he would be too smart for him again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't quite understand."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No? and Allonby's embarrassment was unmistakable."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, there is no great reason why you should. I have a habit of talking at random occasionally. There are quite enough sensible people in this country without me just now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, said Cheyne,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I went on to an especially forlorn place called Boynton, and discovered with some difficulty that Mr. Grant, who hired the locomotive, had stopped it at a dangerous curve and picked several men up. He took them on to Boynton, and there they seem to have disappeared, though it was suggested that they had departed for a place unknown, either on the top of, or underneath a fast freight train."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, he said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't help fancying you have a clue to what really happened, Miss Torrance,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Hetty quietly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is quite plain to me that Larry saved the train."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It strikes you that way, too?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, said Allonby unguardedly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is too bad of Larry. He has beaten us again, though Clavering fixed the thing quite nicely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am to understand that you did not warn the engineer or any of the railroad men?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said Allonby, with evident embarrassment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We didn't. It was necessary to make the thing as ugly for Larry's friends as we could, and we knew you would be at the bridge. If you had caught them in the act, with the train not far away, it would have looked ever so much better for us--and you."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder if you quite recognize the depth of Mr. Grant's iniquity yet?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I confess I should very much like to meet the man. You see, my profession prevents my being a partisan, and the cleverness and daring of what he has evidently done appeals to me. He took the chances of his own men turning on him to save them from an affray with us, brought them off, and sent your cattle-train through; and what, it seems to me, was more than all, disregarded the probability of his enemies associating him with the contriving of the outrage."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wouldn't you have done that?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said the soldier quietly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't think I should. A man who would do what this one has done would be very likely to take a hand in that kind of thing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wonder who could have told him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have no sympathy with Grant, Miss Allonby?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said the girl plaintively."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't go quite as far as Mr. Clavering and my cousin do--though Chris generally talks too much--but Larry is a nuisance, and really ought to be crushed. You see, we had everything we wanted before he and the others made the trouble here."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is quite convincing,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "One could almost fancy that most of us have too much now, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are we better, braver, stronger, or of choicer stuff than those others who have nothing, and only want the little the law would give them? Oh, yes, we are accomplished--very indifferently, some of us--and have been better taught, though one sometimes wonders at the use we make of it; but was that education given us for our virtues, or thrust upon us by the accident that our fathers happened to be rich?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will scarcely approve, Miss Allonby?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never argue with people who talk like that. It would not be any use--and they would never understand me; but everybody knows we were born different from the rabble. It is unfortunate you and Larry couldn't go up and down the country together, convincing people, Flo."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have just come from Newcombe's and heard that you had failed, said Torrance."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you will come along to my room, I should like to hear about it."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't know that failed was quite the correct word. My object was to protect the track, and so far as I could discover, no attempt was made to damage it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, we were under the impression that it was the capture of the man responsible for the affair."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then, said the soldier drily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am afraid you were under a misapprehension."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am just a little astonished you did not consider it advisable to follow the thing up further, when you must have seen what it pointed to,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That, said Cheyne, smiling,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You were, at least, sent here to restore tranquillity."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Precisely! said Cheyne."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "By the State. To maintain peace, and not further the cattle-men's schemes. I am, for the present, your leader's guest; but I have no reason for thinking he believes that in any way constitutes me his ally. In his case I could not use the word accomplice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It should be evident which party is doing the most to bring about tranquillity."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is not, said Cheyne."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know that it is my business to go into that question; but one or two of the efforts you have made lately would scarcely impress the fact on me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are frank, any way,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said Cheyne, with a twinkle in his eyes,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not sure that I am. We occasionally talk a good deal more plainly in the United States cavalry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We have got to get rid of that man, sir, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If we don't, Larry will have him. Allonby had better go and worry the Bureau into sending for another two or three squadrons under a superior officer."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm 'most afraid they are not going to take kindly to any more worrying, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In fact, now it's evident how the feeling of the State is going, I have an idea they'd sooner stand in with the homestead boys. Still, we can try it, any way."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will you hurry Tom up with the supper, while I look through my letters?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "More bad news?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is quite difficult to sit on both sides of the fence, and the boys have no more use for you. Still, there was a time when you did what you could for us, and that is why I am giving you good advice. Sit tight at Fremont, and don't go out at nights."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The consumed asses! he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You see what he means? They have gone after the herring Clavering drew across the trail."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes--they figure the cattle-men have bought me over. Well, there were points that would have drawn any man's suspicions--the packet I would not give up to Chilton--and, as you mention, Miss Torrance's wallet. Still, it hurts."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't worry about them. They are beasts, old man,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I felt it would come, and yet it has shaken most of the grit out of me. I did what I could for them--it was not easy--and they have thrown me over. That is hard to bear, but there's more. No man can tell, now there is no one to hold them in, how far they will go."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We'll presume the fellow who wrote that means well, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What does his warning point to?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An attempt upon my homestead or my life, and I have given them already rather more than either is worth to me,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, this campaign has cost you a good deal,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Probably five thousand dollars--all that seemed good in life--and every friend I had."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "After all, Larry, the thing may be no more than a joke or an attempt at bluff. Even admitting that it is not, it probably only expresses the views of a few of the boys."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. I believe it is quite genuine. I saw how affairs were going even before I wouldn't give Chilton the packet; most of the boys were ready to break away then. Well, one could scarcely blame them for not trusting me, and I felt I was laying down my authority when I sent the stock train through."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not blame them! said Breckenridge, clenching his fist, his eyes blazing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where in the wide world would the crazy fools get another man like you? But if you can take it quietly, I ought to, and the question is, what are you going to do?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What I can, said Grant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hold the boys clear of trouble where it is possible. There are still one or two who will stand behind me, and what we can't do may be done for us. When a man is badly wanted in this country he usually comes to the front, and I will be glad to drop out when I see him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, Breckenridge said slowly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am younger than you are, and I haven't seen as much, but it would be better for me if I had half your optimism. Still, that was not quite what I was asking. If the beasts actually mean to burn your place or attempt your life you are surely not going to give them the opportunity. Can't we fix up a guard among the few sensible men or send for the cavalry?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The one thing I can't do is to lift my hand against the men I brought here in a private quarrel."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't keep it up any longer, and I know how it is with you, because I feel the thing myself, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, if you want me here, I'll stay, but I have a notion the poor attempts at talk I'm making are only worrying you."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It had to come--but it hurts,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The dollars are safe, any way, and that is a big load off my mind, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Gillot has them in his safe, and nobody can touch them without a countersigned order from the executive."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think you were wise, said the lad."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It roused a good deal of feeling when you wouldn't let Harper and his friends have what they asked for, and the boys were very bitter at the meeting while you were away!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, said Grant drily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I knew what they wanted those dollars for, and if I'd had twice as many I would not have given them one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They could not have done much harm with the few they wanted, and it would have saved you a good deal of unpleasantness. I didn't like the way the boys were talking, and it was quite plain the men who kept their heads were anxious. In fact, two or three of them offered to come over and sleep here until the dissatisfaction had simmered down."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You did not accept their offer?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, but I wish you would."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It wouldn't suit me to own up that I was afraid of my friends--and I don't want to believe there are any of them who would injure me. If there were, I could not draw trigger on them in defence of my own property."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then we will hope for the best,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Get up! There are men outside."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Light the lamps downstairs,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That would give them an advantage. They might be the Sheriff's boys."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said Larry, with a laugh that sounded very bitter,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't think they are! Go down, and do what I tell you."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Put those rifles down,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Put them down!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Open that door before we break it in!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Open it for them,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, he said, in a voice that jarred on Breckenridge's ears,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We want you,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then, I'll come out and talk to you,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We have come for the dollars, said a man."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We want them, and they're ours."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, you must ask your committee for them. They are not in my house."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bluff!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hand them out, cried one voice,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will listen to me, boys, and it may be the last time I shall speak to you, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know that right back from the beginning I have done the best I could for you, and now I feel it in me that if you will wait just a little longer the State will do more than I could ever do. Can't you understand that if you go round destroying railroad-trestles, shooting cattle, and burning ranches, you are only playing into the hand of your enemies, and the very men in the legislature who would, if you kept your patience, make your rights sure to you, will be forced to turn the cavalry loose on you? Can't you sit tight another month or two, instead of throwing all we have fought for away?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The trouble is that we don't believe in you, Larry, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You were with us solid one time, but that was before the cattle-barons bought you."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said, very slowly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I can only hope you will have more confidence in your next leader; but I am on the list of the executive still, and if the house was full of dollars I wouldn't give you one of them with which to make trouble that you'll most surely be sorry for. Any way, those I had are safe in a place where, while your committee keep their heads, you will not lay hands on them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pull him down! He has them all the time! Pound them out of him! Burn the place down for a warning to the cattle-men!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have rifles and cartridges here, and after all, those are what we want the most. Now--and it's your last chance--hand them out."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Boys, he said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, Breckenridge said, and shivered at the sound of his own voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Put him into the wagon, and start off at once,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He would have it, and the thump on the head he got would have put an end to most men, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Still, I don't figure you need worry about burying him just yet, and I want a straight answer. Are those dollars in the house?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you would not believe the man who lies there, will you take my word? he said unevenly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He told you they were not."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess he spoke the truth, said somebody."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Any way, we can't find them. Well, what is to be done with him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Leave him where he is, and go away. You have done enough, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He gave you all he had--and I know, as no other man ever will, what it cost him--and this is how you have repaid him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Any way, we'll give you a hand to put him where you want."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am alone; but none of you shall lay a hand on him while I can keep you off. If you have left any life in him, the touch of your fingers would hurt him more than anything."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, I guess they haven't killed him, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Kind of knocked all the senses out of him; and now I've let the rest out, we'll get him to bed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The rest?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, he said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess I got one or two of the homestead-boys, and then Charley and I lit out through a back window, and slipped round to see why the stockboys weren't coming. It was quite simple. The blame firebugs had put a man with a rifle at the door of their sleeping shed."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What can be done?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know that we can do anything, answered the cook."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The fire has got too good a holt, but it's not likely to light anything else the way the wind is. It was one of them blame Chicago rustlers put the firestick in."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pshaw! said Breckenridge."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let it burn. I mean, what can be done for Larry?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We might give him some whiskey--only we haven't any. Still, I've seen this kind of thing happen in the Michigan lumber-camps, and I guess he's most as well without it. You want to give a man's brains time to settle down after they've had a big shake-up."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That sounds like cavalry, the cook said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They have been riding round and seen the blaze."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Captain Cheyne, United States cavalry--at your service, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am afraid I have come a trifle late to be of much use; but a few of my men are trying to pick up the rustlers' trail. Now, how did that man get hurt, and what is the trouble about?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Quietness is often good in these cases; but there is such a thing as collapse following the shock, and I guess by your friend's face it might be well to try to rouse him, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Have you any brandy?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, said Breckenridge."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It has been quite a time since we had that or any other luxuries in this house. Its owner stripped himself for the benefit of the men who did their best to kill him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This should do as well, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You can tell that man to boil some water, and in the meanwhile help me to get the flask top into your partner's mouth."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I guess that will do, said Cheyne."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In one or two of my stations we had to be our own field hospital; but I don't know enough of surgery to take the responsibility of stirring up his circulation any further. Still, when you can get them ready, we will have hot bottles at his feet."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My boys have got the fire under, Cheyne said, coming in an hour later."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, I have been in the saddle most of the day, and while your cook has promised to billet the boys, I'll have to ask you for shelter. If you told me a little about what led up to this trouble, it might pass the time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't see why I should,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It could not hurt you, any way, suggested Cheyne,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think you have done right, Cheyne said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A little rough on him! I had already figured he was that kind of a man. Well, I hear the rest of the boys coming back, and I'll send up a sergeant who knows a good deal about these accidents to look after him."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In fact, said the cavalry officer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, Larry said feebly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would be pleasanter if you concluded I was not quite fit to talk just now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In that case I could not think of worrying you, and have no doubt I can find out. In the meanwhile I guess the best thing you can do is to go to sleep again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you are wanted I'll send for you, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Keep your comrade quiet, and I should be astonished if he is not about again in a day or two."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Grant is recovering?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Cheyne."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He was coming round when I left him. The blow might have been a dangerous one; but I had a suspicion he had more than that to contend with."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, his affairs were not my business, Cheyne went on,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What made them attack him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not quite sure, but I have an idea they were displeased because he did not countenance their attempt to wreck the cattle-train. Then, I believe he held some dollars in trust for them, and, as they presumably wanted them for some fresh outrage, would not give them up. Mr. Grant is evidently a man with a sense of responsibility."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He would have let them tear him to pieces before he gave them one."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, he said, slowly, watching Hetty the while,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I fancy the efforts he made to save your friends' stock will cost him a good deal. The point is that a man of his abilities must have recognized it at the time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you think that would have counted for anything with such a man?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. That is, I do not believe he would have let it influence him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That, said Miss Schuyler,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know that I could desire a higher tribute paid to me. Might one compliment you both on your evident desire to be fair to your enemies?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "His friends have burned the rascal out, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, I don't know that we could have hoped for anything better; but I want to hear what you can tell me about it. You will have to spare me Captain Cheyne for a little, Hetty."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Flo, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Any way, he is your father."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Clavering isn't, and it is he who has made him so bitter against Larry. Flo, it's horrible. They would have been glad if the boys had killed him, and when he's ill and wounded they will not let me go to him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course. But why should you, Hetty?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't know? she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then I'll tell you. Because there is nobody like Larry, and never will be. Because I love him better than I ever fancied I could love anybody, and--though it's 'most wonderful--he has loved me and waited ever so patiently. Now they are all against him, I'm going to him. Flo, they have 'most made me hate them, the people I belong to, and I think if I was a man I could kill Clavering."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hetty, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think I know how such a man as Larry is would feel, and you want him to be proud of you. Well, there are things that neither he nor you could do, and you must listen to me quietly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course you are right, Flo, she said, and her voice was even."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If he could bear all that, I can be patient too. Larry has had ever so many hard things to do, but it is only because it would not be fair to him I'm not going to him now. Flo, you will not leave me until the trouble's through?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is something I have been wanting to tell you for a long time, Hetty,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It would be better for you to wait a little longer, the girl said chillingly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't feel inclined to listen to anything to-night."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The trouble, said Clavering, who spoke the truth,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then go on."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am glad you have told me this, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Since nothing else would convince you, it will enable me to talk plainly; I don't consider it an honour--not in the least. Can't you see that it is wholly and altogether out of the question that I should ever think in that way of you?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I admit that I have a good many shortcomings, but, since you ask, I must confess that I don't quite understand why my respectful offer should rouse your indignation."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No? said Hetty coldly, with the vindictive sparkle still in her eyes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then aren't you very foolish?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, he said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was evidently too audacious; but you have not told me yet why the proposal I ventured to make should appear quite preposterous."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think, said Hetty,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You don't seem pleased to-night,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No? said Clavering, with a little laugh which rang hollow."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I should be. It is quite a while since I had a talk with you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pshaw! said the girl, who failed to blush, though she wished to, watching him covertly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, I wonder if what I'm going to tell you will make you more angry still. Suppose you heard Miss Torrance had been sending letters to Larry Grant?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know that I should believe it,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, she has, the girl said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is more, she has been going out to meet him in the Cedar Bluff."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry dear."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It seems to me that we have only gone round, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It has cost us more dollars than any of us care to reckon, and I for one am tolerably near the end of my tether."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So are the homestead-boys. We can last them out, and we have got to,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not quite sure; but what I want to show you is that we have come back to the place we started from. When we first met here we decided that it was advisable to put down Larry Grant, and though we have not accomplished it yet, it seems to me more necessary than ever just now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't understand you, said one of the younger men."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry's boys have broken loose from him, and he can't worry anybody much alone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That sounds very like sense,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Allonby drily,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will have to make it plainer,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, I know that what I am going to tell you does not sound nice, and a year ago I would have had unpleasant thoughts of the man who suggested any course of that kind to me; but we have got to go under or pull down the enemy. The legislature are beginning to look at things with the homesteaders' eyes, and what we want is popular sympathy. We lost a good chance of getting it over the stock-train. Larry was too clever for us again, and that brings me to the point which should be quite plain. The homestead-boys have lost their heads and will cut their own throats if they are let alone. They are ripe for ranch-burning and firing on the cavalry, and once they start the State will have to step in and whip them out for us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But where does Larry come in?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That, said Clavering,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To be quite plain, we are to cut out the restraining influence, and give the rabble a free hand to let loose anarchy, said one man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, you can strike me off the roll. That is a kind of meanness that wouldn't suit me!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gentlemen, he said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have made a very poor show at catching Larry so far, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you quite sure the thing is within your ability?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess it is, said Torrance sharply."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He is living at his homestead, and we need not be afraid of a hundred men with rifles coming to take him from us now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He has a few neighbours who believe in him, one of the men said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They are not rabble, but level-headed Americans, with the hardest kind of grit in them. It wouldn't suit us to be whipped again."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I agree with our leader--it can be done. In fact, I quite believe we can lay our hands on Larry alone, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can I have a word with you, Mr. Torrance?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sit down, and get through as quick as you can,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Clavering, he said hoarsely,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was very unwilling to mention it, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Still, if you will call Miss Torrance's maid, and the man who grooms her horses, you can convince yourself. It would be better if I was not present when you talk to them."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My daughter--playing the traitress--and worse! It is too hard to bear,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know why you have told me--now--and do not want to hear, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Still, by the Lord who made us both, if you try to make use of this knowledge for any purpose, or let a whisper get about, I'll crush you utterly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Have I deserved these threats, sir?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you expect thanks? The man who grooms her horses would tell me nothing--he lied like a gentleman. But they are not threats. You found buying up mortgages--with our dollars--an easy game."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I knew when I took this thing up I would have to let my scruples go, and now--while I wonder whether my hands will ever feel clean again--I'm going through. You are useful to the committee, and I'll have to tolerate you."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I believe I can promise you that Larry will make us no more trouble, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mr. Clavering has a workable scheme, and it will only need the Sheriff and a few men whom I will choose when I am ready."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This thing is getting too big for you and me, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have not complained, but to-night one could fancy that it's breaking you. Now, I'm not made like you, and when I think of what it has cost me I have got to talk."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It has cost me what every dollar I ever made could not buy me back,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Running strong! said Breckenridge."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Still, the water has not risen much yet, and as I crossed the big rise I saw two of Torrance's cow-boys apparently screwing up their courage to try the ford."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It might be done, said Larry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We have one horse at Fremont that would take me across. The snow on the ranges is not melting yet, and the ice will be tolerably firm on the deep reaches; but it's scarcely likely that we will want to swim the Cedar now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, said Breckenridge, with a laugh,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A note!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, said Breckenridge drily,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I scarcely think this one should worry you. From the fashion in which it reached me I have a notion it's from a lady."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have something on your mind, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What have you been doing, Larry?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Giving the big bay a rub down. I'm riding to Cedar Range to-night."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Have you lost your head? Breckenridge stared at him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Muller saw the Sheriff riding in this morning, and it's more than likely he is at the Range. You are wanted rather more badly than ever just now, Larry."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have tried to do my duty by the boys; but I am going to Cedar to-night."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In haste. Come to the bluff beneath the Range--alone--nine to-morrow night."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, he said, though his face was thoughtful,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I would recognize it anywhere!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Breckenridge significantly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is smeared--thrust into the envelope wet,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry, he said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tom and I will come with you. No--you wait a minute. Of course, I know there are occasions on which one's friends' company is superfluous--distinctly so; but we could pull up and wait behind the bluff--quite a long way off, you know."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was told to come alone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then I'm not going to stay here most of the night by myself. It's doleful. I'll ride over to Muller's now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Will it be any livelier there?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A little, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The fräulein is pretty enough in the lamplight to warrant one listening to a good deal about Menotti and the franc tireurs. She makes really excellent coffee, too,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What can they be plotting, Hetty? she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Horses ready, that most unpleasant Sheriff smiling cunningly as he did when I passed him talking to Clavering, and the sense of expectancy. It's there. One could hear it in their voices, even if one had not seen their faces, and when I met your father at the head of the stairs he almost frightened me. Of course, he was not theatrical--he never is--but I know that set of his lips and look in his eyes, and have more than a fancy it means trouble for somebody. I suppose he has not told you anything--in fact, he seems to have kept curiously aloof from both of us lately."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you have noticed it, too! she said very slowly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course, he has been busy and often away, while I know how anxious he must be; but when he is at home he scarcely speaks to me--and then, there is something in his voice that hurts me. I'm 'most afraid he has found out that I have been talking to Larry."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, she said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Flo, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Torrance will excuse you coming down again, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He may have some of the Sheriff's men and one or two of the cow-boys in, and would sooner you kept your room. Are you likely to want me in the next half-hour?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, said Hetty."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No doubt you are anxious to find out what is going on."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is the matter with the girl, Hetty?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't know. Did you notice anything?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes. I think she had something on her mind. Any way, she was unexplainably anxious to get away from you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then she is only like the rest. Everybody at Cedar is anxious about something now."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I believe the girl has gone out to meet somebody in the bluff,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It doesn't concern us, any way."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Somebody must go and send him away. He is waiting in the bluff."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, try to be sensible, she said sternly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who is in the bluff?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is not my fault--I didn't know what they wanted until the Sheriff came. I tried to tell him, but Joe saw me. Go right now, and send him away."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Keep quiet, and answer just what we ask you! she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who is in the bluff?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Grant, said the girl, with a gasp."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But don't ask me anything. Send him away. They'll kill him. Oh, you are hurting me!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How did he come there?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I took Miss Torrance's letter, and wrote the rest of it. I didn't know they meant to do him any harm, but they made me write. I had to--he said he would marry me."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You wicked woman! she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How dare you tell me that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I mean Mr. Clavering. Oh----!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Go and undo your work, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Slip down at the back of the bluff."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I daren't--I tried, and the girl quivered in Miss Schuyler's grasp."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If I could have warned him I would not have told you; but Joe saw me, and I was afraid. I told him to come at nine."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Go straight to your room and stay there, she said, and closing the door, glanced at Hetty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is quite simple. This woman has taken your note-paper and written Larry. He is in the bluff now, and I think she is right. Your friends mean to make him prisoner or shoot him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Stop, and go away, said Hetty hoarsely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am going to him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she said, very quietly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would be better if I went in place of you. Sit down, and don't lose your head, Hetty!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You can't--how could I let you? Larry belongs to me. Let me go. Every minute is worth ever so much."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There are twenty of them yet. He has come too early, said Flora Schuyler, with a glance at the clock."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Any way, you must understand what you are going to do. It was Clavering arranged this, but your father knew what he was doing and I think he knows everything. If you leave this house to-night, Hetty, everybody will know you warned Larry, and it will make a great difference to you. It will gain you the dislike of all your friends and place a barrier between you and your father which, I think, will never be taken away again!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand aside, Flo, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nobody but Larry wants me now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then, she said, with a little quiver in her voice,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Flo, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, she said hoarsely,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is Larry. If I didn't know the kind of man he is, I would not let you go. Kiss me, Hetty."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It can't be very wrong; and you have been a good friend, Flo,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No! she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Back into the shadow of the trees!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You sent for me, dear, and I have come. Can't you give me just a minute now?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, said Hetty breathlessly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't understand, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You sent for me!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, the girl again gasped."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, Larry, go away! Clavering and the others who are most bitter against you are in the house."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Still, he persisted, with a curious quietness,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, said Hetty, turning away from him,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you came to warn me? he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hetty, dear, look up."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, she gasped,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Listen a moment, dear, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have tried to do the square thing, but I think to-night's work relieves me of the obligation. Hetty, can't you see that your father would never give you to me, and you must choose between us sooner or later? I have waited a long while, and would try to wait longer if it would relieve you of the difficulty, but you will have to make the decision, and it can't be harder now than it would be in the future. Promise me you will go back to New York with Miss Schuyler, and stay with her until I come for you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry, she said,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My dear, I have longed for you for eight weary years--and I think you could trust me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, and Hetty's voice was very uneven, though she still met his eyes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, you can take me now."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Think, my dear! he said hoarsely."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would not be fair to you. Miss Schuyler will take you away in a week or two, and I will come for you. I dare not do anything you may be sorry for; and they may find you are not in the house. You must go home before my strength gives way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Go home! she said passionately."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They wanted to kill you--and I can never go back now. If I did, they would know I had warned you--and believe--Can't you understand, Larry?"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then, he said in a strained voice,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am ready. Oh, be quick. They may come any minute!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, he said, very quietly,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Quit firing. He has the girl with him!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Breckenridge! He'll draw them off, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hold fast! We have got to face the river."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Slack your bridle, he said sharply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The beast will bring us through."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry! she gasped."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry, are you there!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Through the worst!"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That was because of what we have been through, dear, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There was a horrible moment, when I could not see you anywhere."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Breckenridge! He must have Muller or somebody with him, and they are chasing him, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I didn't know he was following me, but he is gaining us valuable time, and we will push on again. Your friends will find out they are following the wrong man very soon, but we should get another horse at Muller's before they can ride round by the bridge."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Torrance!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, said Larry quietly,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He two hours since with Mr. Breckenridge go, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is new horse in the stable, and you on the rack a saddle for lady find."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He is of the one thing at the time alone enabled to think, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is so with the man, but a dress with the water soaked is not convenient to ride at night in."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, that shows how foolish one can be, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was clean forgetting about the clothes; but we must start again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are wet to the neck, Larry, and it will do you good, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you don't mind--we needn't wait until Miss Muller gets another cup."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have run over most of Europe, but they grow no wine there that was half as nice as the tea we made in the black can back there in the bluff. Quite often in those days we hadn't a cup at all."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It nothing is, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is, perhaps, the effect tobacco have, but the mouth is soft in a man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You have trust in him, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is of no use afraid to be. I quick take a man like Mr. Grant when he ask me."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The fräulein is right, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, Larry, will you tell me--where we are going?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To Windsor. I have still good friends there. That is the prosaic fact, but there is ever so much behind it. We can't see the trail just now, dear, but we are riding out into the future that has all kinds of brightness in store."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Pull him! he cried hoarsely."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now, she said, with a happy little laugh,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There are others one can have all the time, and we'll think of them to-night, said the man."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There are bright days before us, and we can wait until they come."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course! she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have a good deal to make up to you, Hetty, and I will try to do it faithfully, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Still, we will look forward with hope and courage now--it is our wedding day."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is hard to ask you, Larry--though I know it shouldn't be--but have you a few dollars that you could give me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "All that is mine is yours, and, as it happens, I have two or three bills in my wallet. Is there anything you wish to buy?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Larry, she said softly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I couldn't marry you like this. I haven't one dollar in my pocket--and I am coming to you with nothing, dear."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I scarcely dare remember all that you have given up for me! And if you had taken Clavering or one of the others you would have ridden to your wedding with a hundred men behind you, as rich as a princess."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It happened, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You come right along and put some of my things on, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, you are going with me to have breakfast at the hotel, and talk to the judge. I guess the women aren't going to have any use for us."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That dress is not good enough for you, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is very different from what you have been accustomed to."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You will have very few dollars to spare, Larry, until the trouble's through, she said,"
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now I have something to tell your husband, Mrs. Grant, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You will have to spare him for about five minutes."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It must concern us both now, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I hear?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, said the judge, who looked a trifle embarrassed,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess you are right, and Larry would have to tell you; but it's not a pleasant task to me. It is just this--we can't keep you and your husband any longer in this town."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you against us, too? Hetty asked, with a flash in her eyes."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am not afraid."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are Torrance of Cedar's daughter, and everyone knows the kind of grit there is in that family. While I knew the cattle-men would raise a good deal of unpleasantness when I married you, I did it out of friendliness for Larry; but it is my duty to uphold the law, and I can't have your husband's friends and your father's cow-boys making trouble here."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Larry, said the girl tremulously,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You shall stay here in spite of them until you feel fit to ride for the railroad."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Battersly saw Torrance with the Sheriff and Clavering and quite a band of cow-boys ride by the trail forks an hour ago, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They were heading for Hamlin's, but they'd make this place in two hours when they didn't find Larry there."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must go, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It would be too horrible if you should meet him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mrs. Grant is right, said the storekeeper."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We know Torrance of Cedar, and if you stayed here, Larry, you and she might be sorry all your lives. Now, you could, by riding hard, make Canada to-morrow."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you very tired? he said gently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It must be the saddle again."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am 'most ashamed to look at you, but you will forgive me, little girl, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There are brighter days before us than your wedding one, and by and by I hope you will not be sorry you have borne so much for me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have nothing to forgive and am only very tired, she said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I shall never be sorry while you are kind to me, and I would have ridden to Canada if I had known that it would have killed me. The one thing I am afraid of is that you and he should meet."
}
]
|
27115 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hetty, you must rouse yourself,"
}
]
|
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