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| title
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|---|---|---|---|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must get rid of this coolie, she said, brushing the clusters of dark hair from her face."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will help you, if you like. But over he goes!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But the blood."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Call a deck-boy. Tell him as little as you need. You are one of the ship's officers. He will not question you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can you forgive me for this--way I have acted, my--my ingratitude?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Forgiveness seems to be a woman's principal role in life, she said with a tired smile."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes. I am sorry, too, that we misunderstood. Good-night, my dear."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Every bullet has its billet,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mynheer, he began in a somewhat constrained voice, low and richly guttural,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I overheard the passengers talking about a coolie falling overboard last night, sir,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know nodding of dot business, young man?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nothing at all, Myn Captain."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Dot iss strange. Dot iss strange, muttered the captain as they rounded the forward cabin and made their way in slow, measured strides down the port side."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I haf seen you come aboard yesterday, mynheer; und I haf seen you t'row over der side a coolie, a coolie who wass wit' der coolie who dis'ppeared last nacht. Why did you t'row him over der side, eh?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He threatened me with his knife, replied Peter without an instant's hesitation."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why should he stab me? intoned Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I never saw him before. I am a peaceful citizen. The only interest I have on this ship, Mynheer Captain, is the wireless apparatus."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope so,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You like dis ship, eh?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very much, indeed."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And I vant you to stay, young man. I vant you to stay joost as long as you feel like staying. But I vant to ask you one t'ing, joost one t'ing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll do anything you say, sir."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Joost one t'ing. Better, first I should say, ven you t'row overboard der coolies you dislike, it vould be best not to keep--vat are dey called--der soufenirs. Sooch t'ings as peestols."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, _mynheer_----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bot' of dem vas bad Chinks. I know. I know bot' of dose coolies a long, long time. T'ieves and blood men. _Tot ver vlomme_! It iss gude rittance, as you say. Young man, I haf nodding but one more t'ing to tell you. I say, I like you--immensely. I vant you very much to stay. But der next time coolies are to be t'rown over der side, I will be pleased to haf you ask my permission."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But why all the hubbub about Peter Moore?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are--you--Peter--Moore?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no, no!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is--he--on--board?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no, no!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You--are--a--double-barreled liar! said the Manila spark with vehement emphasis."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No operator on the Pacific has that fist. You might as well try to disguise the color of your eyes!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why did you leave the _Vandalia_ at Shanghai?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never left the _Vandalia_ anywhere, retorted Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've just come up from Singapore and Singaraja way. I am taking the _Persian Gulf_ to Hong Kong, and back to Batavia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No--you're--not, stated Manila's high-toned spark."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're going to be pinched as soon as you land in Hong Kong for deserting your ship at Shanghai. That's a secret, for old friendship's sake."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It may be a secret, but only a thousand stations are listening in, he said at length."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But, thanks, old-timer, just the same. If they pinch Peter Moore in Hong Kong, they will have to extradite him from Kowloon. In other words, they will have to go some. Besides, what Peter does in Shanghai cannot be laid against him in Hong Kong. The law's the law."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand by, Manila, shrilled this one."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Message for the _Persian Gulf_."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good morning, little stranger, roared Peter's stridulent machine."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're pretty far from home. Won't you get your feet wet? The ocean's pretty dewy this morning. Well, what do _you_ want? Shoot it, and shoot fast. Peter Moore's at the key, and the faster you shoot them the better Peter likes them."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A message for Peter Moore, operator in charge, steamer _Persian Gulf_, at sea. Report immediately upon arrival in Hong Kong to American consul for orders. (Signed) B. P. Eckles, commanding officer, U. S. S. _Buffalo_."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To Commander Eckles, U. S. S. _Buffalo_, somewhere south of Mindanao. What for? (Signed) Peter Moore."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To Peter Moore, operator in charge, steamer _Persian Gulf_, at sea. Orders. Obey them. (Signed) B. P. Eckles."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Please ask the commander what's the trouble."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He says, ask the American consul at Hong Kong."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "O.K."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You look troubled, she said, as her smile was replaced by a look of tender concern."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is it? She lowered her voice to a confidential undertone."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Last night's affair, _desu-ka_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am discovered, Miss Borria. That is to say, I have just given myself away to the Manila navy station, not to speak of the commander of a gunboat, not far from us, off the coast of Mindanao. It seems --he made a wry face--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter Moore is not popular with the authorities for deserting a certain ship in Shanghai."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The _Vandalia_!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Miss Borria, he remarked stiffly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I told you last night you're clever; and now you've given me just one more reason to stick to my guns; one more reason to believe that you know more than you're supposed to know. Now, let's be perfectly frank--for once. Let's not erase any more rouge stripes, so to speak. Won't you please tell me just what you do know about my activities in this neighborhood?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, Mr. Moore, she said vigorously,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will. But you must promise--promise faithfully--to ask no questions. Will you do that?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You sent this young lady home on the _Manchuria_, or the _Mongolia_, I forget just which. That night on the bund near the French legation, you met, quite by accident, another young lady who found your companionship quite desirable. Her name was Miss Amy Vost, a bright little thing."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You don't happen to know, put in Peter ironically,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "At last accounts she was studying for a doctor's degree in the university at San Friole, Mr. Moore."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Indeed!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course they were lies, Mr. Moore. Chang is one of _his_ most trusted henchmen. He even permitted you to kill one of his coolies. The coolie would have died anyway; he was beginning to learn too much. But it tickled Chang, and _him_, to let you have this chance, to see how far you would go. And Chang had orders to help you reach Len Yang. It gave you confidence in yourself, did it not?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't believe a word,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But he let you go; and he and his thousand sharpshooters who lined the great, green walls, when you and Captain MacLaurin and Miss Vost galloped bravely out, with one poor little mule! A thousand rifles, I say, were leveled upon you in that bright moonlight, Mr. Moore. But _he_ said--_no_!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you joined a caravan for India, and, for a little while, they thought your trail was lost. But you reappeared in Mandalay, attired as a street fakir; and you limped all the way to Rangoon. Why did you limp, Mr. Moore?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A mule stamped on my foot, coming through the Merchants' Pass into Bengal."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It healed rapidly, no doubt, for you were very active from that time on. You took passage to Penang, to Singapore, doubling back to Penang, and again to Singapore, and caught a blue-funnel steamer for Batavia."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But, Miss Borria, writhed Peter,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It was great fun for him, and he enjoyed it. He treats his enemies that way--for a while. You have now entered upon the second stage of enmity with him. Last night was a sample of what you may expect from now on. Only the sheerest luck saved you from the coolie's bullet--and my almost-too-tardy intervention."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I take it, he said,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Call me a special emissary if you choose. Perhaps I am. Perhaps I am only a friend, who desires above everything else to help you avoid a most certain and a most unpleasant death. I have given you your opportunity. From my heart I gave you, and I still do give you, the chance to leave--with me. Yes; I mean that. Your promise, backed by your word of honor, is a passport to safety for both of us. Your refusal, I might as well confess, means to me--death! Won't you stop and consider? Won't you say--yes?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You may report to him, said he,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You have not forgotten--Kowloon, _busar satu_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not I, small one!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This--is _adieu_--or _au revoir_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I hope--_au revoir_, she replied dully."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So, after all, you refuse to take my counsel, my advice, seriously?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The great mountain must crumble. The strong beam must break. The wise man must wither away like a plant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am afraid you will never become serious, Mr. Moore. And perhaps that is one of the reasons why I've grown so--so fond of you in this short while. If I could take life--and death--as stoically, as happily, as you--oh, God!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Moore, I'll make a foolish confession, too, now. It is--I love you. And in return----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think you're the bravest girl in the world, said Peter, taking her hands with a movement of quick penitence."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You--you're a brick."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I guess I am, she sighed, looking moodily away."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A brick of clay! Perhaps it is best to walk into the arms of your enemies the way you do, with your head back and eyes shining and a smile of contempt on your lips. If I only could!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why speak of death on a day like this? said Peter lightly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Life is so beautiful. See those red-and-yellow blossoms on the hill, near the governor's place, and the poor little brats on that sampan, thinking they're the happiest kids in the world. What hurts them, hurts them; what pleases them, pleases them. They're happy because they don't bother to anticipate. And think of life, beautiful old life, brimming over with excitement and the mystery of the very next moment!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If I could only see that next moment!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ugh! What a dreary monotony life would become!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But we could be sure. We could prepare for--for--well---- She threw up her head defiantly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For death, I'll say."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But please don't let's talk of death. Let's talk of the fine time you and I are going to have when we see each other again."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will there be another time, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why, of course! You name that time; any time, any place. We'll eat and drink and chatter like a couple of parrots. And you will forget all this--this that is behind us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To-night, she said quickly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll meet you. Let me see. On the Desvoeux Road side of the Hong Kong Hotel balcony, the restaurant, upstairs, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Right! agreed Peter with enthusiasm."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Will we let husband go along?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will be alone. So will you, at seven o'clock. You'll be there, without fail?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I forget, said Peter, with his flashing smile."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll be dead in an hour. The steel trap of China, you know."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Please don't jest."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll tell you what I will do. I'll put a tag on my lapel, saying, deliver this corpse to the Desvoeux Road balcony of the Hong Kong Hotel restaurant at seven sharp to-night! Without fail! C. O. D.!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To Kowloon. Chop-chop! shouted Peter."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hi! Ho! Hay! Ho!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To Canton, too?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are safe, brave one?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where does your aged grandmother live, small one?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have the address here, _birahi_,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A rickshaw man can find the place, of course, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, look into my eyes, small one, and listen to what I say."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I listen closely, _birahi_,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I want you to stop calling me _birahi_. I am not your love, can never be your love, nor can you ever be mine."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But why, _bi_--my brave one?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because--because, I am a wicked one, an _orang gila_, a destroyer of good, a man of no heart, or worse, a black one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Allah, what lies!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, and a liar, too, declared Peter venomously, permitting his fair features to darken with the blackest of looks. Was she flirting with him?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A man who never told the truth in his life. A bad, bad man,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But why are you telling such things to me, my brave one?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "she said in her tinkling voice, and with gravity far in advance of her summers,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is the penalty of friendship, _birahi_. You do not mind if I call you _birahi_ in our last moment together?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No. No."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am curious, so curious, my brave one, about the red-faced man, and the one with the black coat. But we women are meant for silence. _Birahi_, I have played no part--I have been like a dead lily--a burden. Perhaps, if you are in great danger----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am in great danger, small one. The red toad wants my life, and you must detain him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I will talk to him! But the others, the black-coated one--what of them? They would like the feel of your blood on their hands, too!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will do anything,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Has your grandmother a sampan, a trustworthy coolie?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aie, _birahi_! She is rich!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then have that coolie be at the Hong Kong landing stage with his sampan at midnight. Have him wait until morning. If I do not come by dawn he will return immediately to Canton. By dawn, if I am not there, it will mean----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Death?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If the _fokie_ returns with that message, you will write a short note----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To one you love?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To one I love. In America. The name is Eileen Lorimer; the address, Pasadena, California. You will say simply, 'Peter Moore is dead.'"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah! I must not say that. It will break her heart! But you must go now, my brave one. I will talk to the red toad!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have been advised, began the American consul, giving to Peter's blue eyes a look of curiosity in which was mingled not a little unconcealed admiration, as he might have looked upon the person of Pancho Villa, had that other miscreant stepped into his gloomy office--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have been advised, he repeated importantly,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I was told by Commander Eckles to report to you, he replied respectfully,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My orders, Mr. Moore, are that you leave China immediately. I trust----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is a matter which, unfortunately, I cannot discuss with you. The order comes, I am permitted to inform you, from the highest of diplomatic quarters. To be exact, from Peking, and from the American ambassador, to be more specific."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have I been interfering with the lawful pursuits of the Chinese Empire?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well--perhaps, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "On the whole, that is something you can best explain yourself, Mr. Moore. If you should care to give me your side of the question, ah----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I haven't a thing to say, rejoined Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If the United States Government chooses to believe that my presence is inimical to its interests in China----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pressure might have been brought to bear from another quarter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Quite so,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Now, if you should desire to make me acquainted with your pursuits during the past--ah--few months, let us say, it is within the bounds of possibility that I might somehow rescind this drastic--ah--order. Suffice it to say, that I shall be glad to put my every power at your aid. As you are an American, it is my duty and my pleasure, sir, if you will permit me, to do all within my power, my somewhat restricted power, if I may qualify that statement, to reinstate you in the good graces of those--ah--good gentlemen in Peking."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am able to say nothing, he expressed himself quietly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If the American ambassador has decreed that I ought to go home--home I go! I'll confess right now that I did not intend to go home when I stepped into this office, but I do respect, and I will respect, the authority of that order."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If the President, for example, should request you to continue--ah--what you have been doing, for the good, let us say, of humanity, you would continue without hesitation, Mr. Moore?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I certainly would."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It has been gratifying to know one who has become such a singular, and, permit me to add, such a trying figure, in diplomatic circles, during the past week. Good-day, sir!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Un Peu d'Amour,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Jaw-s-s-st a lee-e-e-edle lof-f-ff-- A le-e-e-edle ke-e-e-e-e-e-s--"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You see --he smiled at her, as she settled back and fostered upon him a look of brooding tenderness--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Simply because I have persuaded them to extend your parole to one o'clock. If you linger in China, you have--and need I say that the same applies to me--six more hours in which to jest, to laugh, to love--to live!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For which I am, as always in the face of favors, duly grateful, said Peter in high humor."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "None the less I have this day, since we parted this morning, indulged in one pistol duel between sampans, with one of your admirable confrères----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, I heard of that. But it stopped there. You winged his sampan coolie."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And at the Canton station, if I may be pardoned for contradicting, I encountered the red-faced one. To tell you what you may already know, I punched him in the jaw, dog-gone him!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You must be mistaken."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A choleric gentleman born with the habit of reaching for his hip-pocket,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He must be from the north. Some of them I do not know. But all of them have been informed."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To permit me to live and love until one to-morrow morning?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Un Peu d'Amour."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I could ge-e-e-eve you al-l-l my life for the-e-e-e-s--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Badly sung, but appropriate,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It may mean that I am giving you all my life for--this,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "For these few minutes, when we were to chatter, and make love, and be happy? Peter demanded indignantly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My dear---- He reached out for her hand, and she let him fondle it, not reluctantly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd give all my life, too, for these few minutes with you. Do you know--you're perfectly adorable to-night! There's something--something irresistible about you--to me!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "To you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, he said in a deep voice, and sincerely."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'd come all the way 'round the world, and lay my life at your feet--thus."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ah! But you don't mean that!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "When I'm in love, I mean everything!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I know. You are fickle. Miss Lorimer--Miss--Vost--Romola--they come, they love, they are gone, quite as fatefully and systematically as life follows death, and death follows life."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do wish you wouldn't talk about death in that flippant manner,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But death is in my mind always--Peter. When you have gone through----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Romola, I refuse to be lectured."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Very well; I refuse to talk of anything but love and death."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Excellent, my own love! Tell me now how it feels when _you_ are in the heavenly condition."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Most hopeless, Peter; because death, you see, is so close upon the heels of my love."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Meaning--me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No--my heart. The death of love and the death--of life follow my love. Now I want to pick up the threads of a moment ago. Peter, don't hold my hand. That woman is--staring. You said--you said, you would come away around the world to see me, to help me, possibly, if I were in trouble. You weren't serious."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Cross my heart!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "On the _Persian Gulf_ that day--that day I told you something of your recent adventures and your apparently miraculous escapes, I intended to ask you----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Seeress, I am all ears----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I intended asking you a favor, a most important one, an alternative----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The trip to Nara?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes; an alternative to that. Tell me truly how much at heart you hate the man at Len Yang. Wait. Don't answer me yet. At heart, do you really hate him, as you pretend, or are you simply bowing down to your vanity, to the pride you seem to take in these quixotic deeds? For one thing, there is very little money in what you are doing. If you should approach these adventures a little differently, perhaps, you might put yourself in a position to be rewarded for the troubles you take, the dangers you risk. I mean that."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I admit I'm not a money hater,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would be so easy for you to make all the money you need in only a few years by--how shall I say it?--by 'being nice.' Wait! I have not finished. You said I was a special emissary from him. You hit the mark more squarely than you thought. Oh, I admit it! I was sent to Batavia to meet you, to intercept you, and, to be quite frank, to ask you your terms."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "From _him_?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes. He has observed you. He can use you, and oh!--how badly he wants you and your boldness and that unconquerable fire of yours! He needs you! He wants you, more than any man he has known! And he will pay you! Name your price! A half million gold a year? Bah! It is a drop to him!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't, begged Peter in a whisper."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Please--don't--go on."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "God! I put my confidence in you, time after time, and each time you show me treachery, deeper, more hideous, than before. Please don't continue. I'm trying, as hard as I know how, to appreciate your position in this wretched mess--and trying to find some excuse for it. For you! And it's hard. Damned, brutally hard. Let's part! Let's forget! Let's be just memories to each other--Romola!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then I can only hope--a slender hope--to bring you back to the favor I asked you originally, and I place that before you now, my request for that favor--my final hope. You cannot refuse that. You cannot! You profess to be chivalrous. Now, let me--test you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Romola, I said no to Nara long ago."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A woman should need to be informed but once that her love is not wanted. This is not what I meant."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah! Another scheme! Your little brain is nothing short of an idea machine. Remarkable! Go on."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, she said, rather sullenly, at this flow of bitterness,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What do you mean by that? Will I break into the house and help you rob?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There is no other way. The money is in a desk, locked. I am not strong enough to break the lock. You can. Then, too, there are some papers of mine----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Romola, will this give you the contentment you desire?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I--I think so. I hope so."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then I will help you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, Peter, how can I----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You see, my dear, you can't frighten me--easily. You can't bribe me, Romola. But you can appeal to my weakness----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A woman in distress--your weakness!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Romola, will you answer a question?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll try!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why are beautiful women--girls--from all parts of the world stolen--to work in that mine?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not know, Peter."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must wait until midnight, she informed him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He will be asleep; the servants will have retired."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Your final card! he whispered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The final trick! God! Now, damn you, get me out of this!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't. I--I---- Oh, God! Kill me! I gave you every chance. They forced me--forced me to bring you here. They would have strangled me, just as they strangled the other!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Safe! he groaned."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Safety for you. Death--for me! You--you led me into their hands, and I--I trusted you. I trusted you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hush! If they, if he, so much as guessed that I cared for you, that I loved you, it would mean my death. I was forced--forced to bring you here. Don't you understand? And if he even guessed. But you had your chance. You had your chance!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand up and face them. Meet your death! Escape is--impossible! Impossible! They are watching you like a rat. In a moment they know you can stand this strain no longer! Face them, I say! Show them that----"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wait! she cried in an awful voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I love you! Wait!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Run! Run! For your life!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wait! Oh, wait!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've got me cornered, he whispered harshly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's after one o'clock. The parole is up. Why prolong the agony? Damn you, I'm unarmed!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Say, you young prize-fighter, he sputtered,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A sampan is following, translated the girl in her tiny voice,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The _King of Asia_, she told him."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In a moment, _birahi_, in a moment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I told the red-faced one to be here, too, at midnight, the girl was whispering in his ear."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He came. He is a friend. Your fears were wrong, _birahi_."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am not coming aboard; I am going back to my hotel, said the red-faced man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You will not leave this ship? You will promise me that?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will promise, said Peter gravely."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You, I presume, are Mr. J. B. Whalen, the Marconi supervisor?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are going to the one you love, _birahi_, she said in her tinkling little voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Before we part, I want you--I want you to---- and she hesitated."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come now, my brave one, she added with an attempt at briskness."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You must go. Hurry!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You were saying, he began huskily, as she reached out to steady the ladder."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You wanted me----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Just this, my brave one. And she reached up on tiptoes and kissed him ever so lightly upon his lips."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "When you think of me, _birahi_, close your eyes and dream. For I--I might have loved you!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What--what----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He is dead! came the whisper from the small deck."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I killed him! I killed him! Do you hear me? I am free! Free! Why do you stare at me so? I am ready to go. But you must ask me! I will not follow you. I will not!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am not a tool of the Gray Dragon, went on the vehement whisper."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am not!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Go back--there, he managed to stammer at last."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Go back! I won't have you! I'm through with this damned place."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are leaving me--leaving me--for her--for Eileen!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Moore, the emissary began in a low, confident voice,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am returning to China to-night on the _Chenyo Maru_. Before I sail, if there is some message----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm through with China, through with Len Yang, through with wireless. I intend settling down on my little ranch near Santa Cruz. That may save your trailers annoyance."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Evidently you are not aware that your little ranch is no longer in your possession. You see, Mr. Moore, when we are interested in a person, we take pains to exhaust the tiniest details. Your ranch was sold about three months ago; in a moment of absent-mindedness, perhaps, you neglected to pay the taxes. However, if you but say the word----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thank you, Peter headed him off in a tired and indifferent voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You've saved me a trip for nothing. After all, the property is probably better off in other hands. Now I have nothing in the world to worry about but myself. _Bon voyage_, Mr. Fong! And my respects to----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Take the twelve-thirty train. Will meet you at station."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Professor Hodgson;"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Moore and I have a great deal to talk over. You will excuse me, won't you, until to-night?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps Mr. Moore would like to go, if he cares to stag it. I'm afraid every girl in town has been invited by now."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stag what?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There's to be a St. Valentine's ball to-night, enthused the girl."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "St. Valentine's Day is the fourteenth, you know. I'm sure you'd enjoy it! You'll go, won't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But--but---- stammered Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I had hoped that you and I could spend the evening by ourselves."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, but I couldn't do that! cried Eileen, with reproach in her big, gray eyes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Professor Hodgson invited me ages ago! Can't we talk this afternoon and to-morrow. I'll cut classes all day. Please go! I'll give you every other dance! The professor won't mind. He's an old dear!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll go on that condition, said Peter gaily."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Every other dance with Miss Lorimer!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's fine! Professor Hodgson rejoined."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have you a costume?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your wireless uniform! cried Eileen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You look wonderful in that!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll be around at eight, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "See you later, Mr. Moore."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So-long!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want to talk to you all afternoon! she declared with her adorable smile, when the professor was out of earshot."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shall we take a car-ride?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want you to tell me everything from the very beginning, she said with a bright smile."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I want to know why you left me so suddenly in Shanghai. I had a hundred questions to ask. You were mean!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You can begin wherever you please,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then, why, demanded Eileen, giving him a hungry little look,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because I was in love with you, Peter replied abruptly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You were in danger. So was I. I wanted to get you out of China as quickly as possible, because, you see, my dear, the man who had his agents kidnap you, and who was having you transported to China on the _Vandalia_, would have recaptured you without difficulty. Do you mind if I tell you, Eileen, that it broke my heart when I realized that we wouldn't see one another for goodness knows how long a time?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell me the truth, Peter. You thought I was just an innocent, helpless little thing, now didn't you? You said to yourself, 'I'll get myself into all sorts of trouble with her on my hands.' Didn't you say that to yourself, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I did. You're right. You were not made for that place. If you'll let me, I'll tell you what you were made for."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You needn't, said Eileen with a sigh."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because I know. You are going to tell me that I am just the right size for a bungalow for two, of which you are the second, and that I need some big man like yourself to have around, to shield and protect me, to smooth and round off the sharp corners of this harsh old life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How did you guess?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Maybe your eyes said that when you told me to go home that day, and maybe other men have told me the same thing! Anyway, that is what you have come here to tell me--or haven't you?--that you are all ready now to leave behind the terribly wicked and adventurous life you've been leading, and settle down, and live respectably forever after! Isn't that the truth?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're something of a mind-reader."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, I'm not. But I have sense. Peter, I still think, just as I thought that terrible night when you slid down the rope from the _Vandalia_ with me dangling from your neck, that dreadful night on the Whang-poo in the fog, that you're the finest and bravest man on earth. That's why I let you make love to me on the bund; because--well, because I wanted you to come back!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In return, Peter responded with enthusiasm,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have kept you next to my heart all of that time, thinking of you every time I felt discouraged, looking upon you always as a refuge, exactly as you say, when China got the best of me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Has China got the best of you, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It has! I was chased out of the Yellow Empire with a broken arm, by agents of the same man who tried to kidnap you. I removed the splints only this morning. Since I saw you, I have paid a visit to the dreadful red city where you were being taken, escaped, and made my way through India and the Straits Settlements and back to Hong Kong."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And they shot you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've put China behind me forever, I hope, and now, a little older, a little wiser, and very weary, I've come to lay the same worthless old heart at your dear little feet!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In addition to that, I'm studying for a doctor's degree. When the course is finished I am going to join you in China. We'll invade that dreadful mining city alone, just you and I, and we'll make it the most wonderful place in China! You see, Peter, I intend to be a medical missionary; and you won't have to worry your dear old brain about me the least bit. If you won't take me, I'll go by myself!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sweetheart, Peter declared with difficulty,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Won't you take me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know I'd fetch you the man in the moon if you wanted him badly enough!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you'll get that silly old notion of a bungalow for two out of your head?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll try. It will be a hard job. And, Eileen----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You don't care about this Professor Hodgson, do you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, no, Peter! Once or twice he's tried to make love, and you could see, couldn't you, how furious he was when we left him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought my goose was cooked,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Silly old goose!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Eileen--Eileen, he muttered,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You--beast! she stammered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You--you saw him come in! How dared you! How dared you! I thought you were a--gentleman--you--you beast!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "One stolen kiss----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You--one of that band!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, let me apologize, he laughed, rubbing the red mark about his mouth with his free hand."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If your hero resents my robbing him of one stingy, little kiss---- Band? What band?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stop him! cried Eileen shrilly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, please, somebody call him back!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Back again, as I live! he chirruped, pumping Peter's hand exuberantly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where now, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "China, said Peter;"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Sure thing! By the way, here's a special delivery letter for you in the mail that hasn't been assorted--a nice square envelope. Looks to me like a wedding invitation!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A letter addressed to you, sir. Found it in the corridor outside your stateroom. Must have fallen from your pocket."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh! Chiang Nan's a hundred li, yet in a moment's space I've flown away to Chiang Nan and touched a dreaming face."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Wanchee my?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stay allatime on _King Asia_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Maybe. Maybe not, he said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What's on your mind, Jen?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You tell me what going do, replied the yellow one meaningly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can do?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mebbe can do, replied Peter, folding his hands."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You run up to the place on Jen Kee Road as soon as you catchee sampan. Tell man-man if I decide to do anything I will drop in and tell him. You don't know, Jen, but he knows that my word is good. If I decide to go up-river I'll tell man-man. If I decide to do nothing, I'll say nothing to man-man."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Allee light, allee light, said Jen, backing away a few steps."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You tell man-man, eh?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My name is Anthony Andover, he said in a brisk and business-like voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wonder if I could have a talk with you."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Moore, I'm in something of a devil of a fix, and I think you're the man who can get me out of it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shoot, said Peter, lighting a yellow cigarette and passing the box."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Chinks?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no! You see, all of my life I've been--well, a city man. The biggest adventure I ever had was a fist fight with my foreman. Now----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you lick him?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Blacked his eyes and busted his nose!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Good for you! Go ahead with your story."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've met a girl on the steamer, and according to her way of looking at things, I lack about five thousand different parts of being a hero. You know the girl. That's why I'm bothering you like this."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not bothering me a bit. Who's the girl?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peggy. Anthony caressed the word as if it were honey."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peggy Whipple. Of course, the first thing I want to make sure of is, am I stepping on anybody's toes? If I am, I'll just go ahead, and play my own game my own way. If it's to be a case of a fight----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Hold on a moment, interrupted Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't quite follow you. Whose toes do you think you're stepping on?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, Peggy comes up here to the wireless shack so much, that I--I----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, not a bit of it, old man. Peggy's a nice girl. I like her. That's all."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I--I'm mighty glad, said Anthony earnestly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know, she's pretty mad about you, but as long as you're not interested the way I am, well---- He bit his lip nervously, and went on:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I think you'd agree with me that it would be rather foolish of her, and very disappointing and disillusioning later on for her to marry the kind of a man she thinks she wants to marry. She has a notion that the man she marries must be a cross between Adonis, and--and Diamond Dick! She wants a man who carries six-shooters in all his pockets, and who fears neither God, man, nor the devil!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A regular hell buster!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's it! Down in her heart I think she cares for me a little bit. But I'm nothing but a plain, ordinary business man. I never did anything devilish in my life. There's nothing romantic about me. Look at this necktie! Did you ever see a hero wearing a plain black four-in-hand? Never! Did you ever see a hero wearing nice tan oxfords without a spot of mud on them? If I can somehow manage to make her think for a few minutes that I've got heroic stuff in me, she may listen to a little sense. She tells me--rather she threw it in my face--that you are going to take Helen and her on a sight-seeing trip into some of the darkest holes in Shanghai. You know the ropes, and there's no danger, of course."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "None at all,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, I want to know if you'll let me go along. I'll stand every expense; I've got money to burn! Let me in on it, and----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But there isn't going to be a chance for anybody to be a hero. I'm going to take those girls to the safest place in Shanghai. A New England church would be a cavern of iniquity alongside of it!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, couldn't you stir up something? That's my idea. I'll leave it to you to crack up some danger, not real danger, of course--we can't let those girls get near any real danger. But we can start a fake fight--or something--and give me a chance to play the hero, to rescue Peggy in my arms; that sort of stuff, you know."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It might be done, he said."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'll see what I can do."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course, I'll need a revolver."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Load it with blanks, advised Peter."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You know, some people think it's bad luck to kill a Chink."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sometimes,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Allee right, said Peter, briskly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "French concession."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Follow _lan-sî_ veil--savvy?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "My savvy,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Please shut the door, Mr. Moore."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Romola Borria!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, you have found me, Peter,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, he admitted, lamely:"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I saw you passing the jetty. I followed--naturally. I have just come from America."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh. Her voice expressed no surprise."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You came for me, Peter?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought you were dead,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, I am a hard one to kill! A tiny smile flickered across her fine lips."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are not married--to Eileen?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No--and never!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But you must be in love! You are always in love--with some one."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am in love with no one."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Not even----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am in love with no one."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nor am I, said Romola Borria quietly. It seemed to come from her as a vast and reluctant confession."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I loved only one man, and my love for him is quite dead. If I should rake over the embers--oh, but I have raked them over, Peter, many, many times--and I have found not one single small ember glowing! When love dies, you know, it requires a great fire to rekindle it. Oh, I have suffered!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He--is dead?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Can a man live with a bullet in his heart?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I--I saw. I thought--but what does it matter what I thought? He was trying to inject some of his old spirit into his voice. It was rather difficult, this business of laughing at the funeral of love."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Romola, you are more beautiful!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I have suffered,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I am studying. You see, Peter, she explained, in the same rather recriminatory tones,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I was rather fond of you at one time----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Romola, please----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And because it was your profession I became interested in it. I heard the message you sent last night--to--to the place on Jen Kee Road. I was quite worried for a while."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That was why you happened along the bund about the time the boat came up-river?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You wanted to find out if I still cared enough for you to----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Follow me? Yes, Peter; I think that was why."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you didn't know I was on my way to China?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, Peter, I knew nothing."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aren't you connected with my good friend, the man with the sea-lion mustaches, in Len Yang?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never was connected with him."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But you told me you were--back there on the _Persian Gulf_!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No. I did not tell you that. I have seen him; yes. But I was never in his employ. It was Emiguel Borria, my late and--may I say?--my unlamented husband, who made me do those things. Peter----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You say you are not in love. Then what of the little golden-haired girl--the two little golden-haired girls--you left this afternoon on the bund?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They and the young man are passengers on the _King of Asia_. I brought them ashore to give them an insight into China-as-it-really-is."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They are in very capable hands, then, Peter. Aren't you running some risk, though? Isn't there some chance that the men in the Jen Kee Road place may take it into their heads----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am on my word of honor, Romola. I have come back to China, not to start trouble, but simply because--well, why are you in China?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because I haven't the will to leave, perhaps. I stay here in the same spirit that a man or a woman lingers before a dreadful oil painting, like the shark picture of Sorolla; it is terrible, but it is fascinating. I cannot leave. If I did, I would come back, as you come back, time after time. Is that why you've come back?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Exactly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And you imagine you're running no risk with the two golden-haired maids in tow?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps I shouldn't have exposed them to danger. But they were determined, and it's partly to help the young man. Anthony is a plain American business man. He's in love with the youngest. And she, a hero worshipper. He wants to demonstrate himself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter, tell me, why is it? What have you ever done? What do you say? Why--why is it?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, never mind. Tell me more about Anthony."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Anthony believes that if he can demonstrate his valor to Peggy, she will come to his arms. He really is a fine, upstanding fellow. I had intended bringing them to Ching Tong's place out Bubbling Wells way, harmless enough and watched by the police of nine nations. Ching Tong, being a friend who will put himself out for me, will play the part of a very bad villain. Anthony's revolver is loaded with blanks. Mine isn't, but that's just my cowardly nature. You can never tell what might turn up, you know."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Naturally. Go on."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I intend to have Ching Tong stage a very realistic fight down in his cellar, in which Anthony can overpower eight or ten Chink giants, escape out of the window with the fainting Peggy in his arms, and--and----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Simple enough, admitted Romola, with a mild frown. She drew him to a broad, low bench."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Somehow, she went on,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The heavenly twins!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think I'd quite agree with that plan, Peter, if you didn't happen to be in such disrepute in this neighborhood. You must realize that the Gray Dragon's men are watching you. Of course, you didn't recognize your rickshaw coolie. He is one of the Gray Dragon's men--naturally. Don't you think you are exposing those two nice girls unnecessarily to danger?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But circumstances are changed now. You see, I am on the fence--perfectly safe."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are still anxious for you to come with them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's it. They sent a representative last trip all the way to San Francisco."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course you refused? Peter---- Her soft, white hand was resting on his; her red lips were very close to his face."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why don't you join them? You and I!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You and I?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I said 'no' when you asked me that before. No, I'll have nothing to do with that band--never! Going out into the wilderness, up into the mountains on some of their risky errands--with you--might have appealed to me. Not now!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peter, I am afraid I still love you!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And yet, Romola, I'm not afraid of falling in love with you--again! But let's not speak of joining that man in Len Yang. What you're offering is--too tempting. I might give in! You are altogether too fascinating!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Am I?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I've told you that before."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you will go up-river with me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No--never! Why, you almost make me suspect that you're still in that beast's employ."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I never was. I told you that."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've said many things that didn't stand the acid, Romola."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ching Tong must have time to make arrangements, and I have a dinner engagement at the Astor House with Anthony and the heavenly twins. Can't you and I have tea to-morrow afternoon?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, she said."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must not be seen together. It may mean danger for you. I've been thinking over your plan to convert Anthony into an adventurer. Why not bring them all here. I have seven servants, all Chinese, and they would give their lives for me. Let me see----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You can tell them that this place is--well, the heart of the Chinese smuggling trade. It's ridiculous, but it will appeal to them. I will dress up as a Chinese woman--oh, I've done it dozens of times in the past--and I shall be very mysterious. That will seem much more romantic to Peggy than a mere opium den. And it will be safer. I know Ching Tong's shop. It might do, if you were an ordinary person, Peter, but such an adventure should be provided with at least five times as many exits! I have them here."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have plenty of make-up pots. I'll paint up these _fokies_ to look like bandits! I'll have knives in their belts. And I'll plan the rehearsal before you come. Everything will be arranged. She seemed to hesitate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You--you won't bring that dreadful automatic revolver of yours loaded--will you?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You mustn't hit too hard, and be careful if you shoot your revolver to discharge it in the air. At close range even the wads from the blank cartridges are rather deadly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must not be separated, he warned them in a whisper."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Whatever happens--Peggy and Helen--stand close to us. In case of trouble, each of you stand behind whichever of us is nearest. Don't scream. Don't show any money. Peggy, put your pocketbook in your shirt-waist. Now--ready?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The Princess Meng Da Tlang has a word to say to you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is only this, said Romola Borria in tones as rich as the Kyoto temple gong,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Please be seated--there,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm almost scared. Oh, oh, isn't this simply romantic!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I--I'm really a little afraid! whispered Peggy, with her lips so close to Peter's ear that he could feel her warm breath against his neck."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Put your arms around me--please! Peter slipped his arm behind her and around her. He squeezed her."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Oh, sighed Peggy,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peggy, I think you're hardly discreet."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let me die while I'm happy! grinned Peggy. She turned a wistful face to Peter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Did you ever put your arm around another woman before?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Heaven forbid! groaned Peter."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Don't I act like an amateur?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No; you don't!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mongolian smugglers,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Those packages contain gems; diamonds, rubies, pearls from the Punjab, from Bengali, from Burma."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can we see them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Aw, please!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They would tempt even a saint,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Be careful, warned Peter, laying his lips to Peggy's pink ear,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I don't believe it! retorted Peggy."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think the princess is just too sweet for anything."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You must have some of my spiced wine. It is really delicious. _P'êng-yu_ Moore, we won't bother the servants; won't you help me?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I hope it isn't intoxicating,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nearer, she whispered, as he followed suit."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter, tell me----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yes, Romola?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What does this little girl mean to you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peter, my throat is dusty!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In a minute, Peggy, he called back. Lowering his voice again:"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She's merely a child. But why----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter, I've gone to more trouble to-night than you realize, perhaps----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What do you want me to do?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want you to stop making love to that innocent child."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peter, the Sahara Desert is a flowing river compared with my throat!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All right, Peggy; in a minute."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You said once that you--loved me."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I still stand by my guns. But I don't love any one now. You're a temptress, Romola. Why, you are a princess! I never saw you more beautiful than to-night!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peter, can't you realize what a dreary life I've led since that night you ran away from me in Hong Kong? Won't you--for me--because I want it--because I want _you_--reconsider, won't you stop, and think, and----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're getting back to forbidden grounds, Romola."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, God! I know, I know! But what is there left in my life? Why, what is there left in yours? Perhaps you are the best operator on the whole Pacific Ocean; you've had that reputation now--how long--five years? But it is aimless! Where are you drifting? What will become of you as the years pass? You must be nearly thirty now, Peter. I? I am younger, but I have suffered more. The only happiness I have known has been with you."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter, is that cork _awfully_ obstinate?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "In a minute,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you remember those wonderful days and evenings we spent together on the Java Sea, on the old _Persian Gulf_? Do you remember those evenings, Peter, under the moon and the Southern Cross?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I remember a great deal of treachery!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But there is to be no more treachery, she said passionately."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Think, Peter, think! You are penniless--I have only a little money; it will not last long. What follows? Do you know what happens to white women when they are stranded, penniless, friendless, in this country? She shivered."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And it would be such a simple thing to do---to go with me--to him. We would be together forever then--you and I! Tibet! The Punjab! The merchant's trail into Bengal! You and I with our caravan--in the blue foot-hills!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm sorry,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Smash the neck, Peter; I don't mind a little broken glass!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thank you, m'lord,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Is this a part----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, it is not."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "A part of what?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Oh, another joke of the Mongolian smugglers,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why did you do that----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Look!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gracious! Why did you do that? It was only in fun--that dagger, I mean. Why, you might have killed somebody!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I'm not so sure about that."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This is really a most dangerous spot,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Light the candles,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What is the matter?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Moore--Moore----"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Romola! Damn you----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Peter, I--I----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Drugs?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no. I--I----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What have you done to these people? What have you----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You are forgetting----"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What am I forgetting?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's not right, Moore; not right to talk to the princess like this. She's really noble. She's fine!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're drunk, Anthony!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, no, no, he babbled."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sleepy; that's all. Oh, that wine! Perfectly fine! Makes you feel like climbing a moonbeam!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "So it appears. Where are the girls?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Over here. Say--say, Moore, when does the fight start? I--I'm just itching to get at somebody!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You'll have your chance in a moment. And it isn't in fun. Understand?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course I understand! Isn't my gun loaded with bullets? Are we in a trap?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We are! And according to my calculations there's exactly one way out. I think you and the girls will have no difficulty in breaking through. Make a dash for it. Run for all you're worth!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hold on there, remonstrated Anthony, as his eyes lost a trifle of their sleepy look."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's to become of you? Going to make a break for it, too?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's me they're after. I can look out for myself, Anthony; this business isn't quite a novelty in my line. You must get out--and get quick!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And leave you behind? Not Anthony! I stick!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because you loved me so?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because I love you so?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In some respects, he said bitterly,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ah, Peter---- Romola dropped the taper to the bronze altar, where it flickered a moment and went out. She fondled his reluctant hand between cold fingers. Her face became utterly miserable, and there were sparkling tears in her eyes."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My heart is your heart. I have given my love to you. I would give my life for you!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If my death is arranged for to-night----"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Is--is my end so close?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You are in great danger. This may be your final opportunity. See? I am offering no resistance. Why--why do you hesitate?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Peter--_ni kan_!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We must start. Wake them up."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've tried. That wine!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Watch the door. If any one tries to break in, shoot straight at the sound! You're not hurt, are you? Did that fellow get you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Christ! he muttered. His lips were white."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That man! I shot him! He's dead! Dead!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And we are still alive,"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "V--V--V--V---- What station is that? This is the _Madrusa_."
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Who is on watch? This is Peter Moore. That you, Johnny Driggs?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes! Yes! Yes! roared the _Madrusa's_ spark."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Where are you? What are you doing up at this time of night playing with a baby coil?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Damn it! replied the quick fingers of the gunboat's operator."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Damn it! But I can't get shore leave! Impossible--you can guess why! Our gunnery officer, Lieutenant Milton Raynard, is jumping to go! He'll fetch you five or six sailors. He knows the lay of the land, and I've sketched him a map of the locality from your description. Cinch! They'll be off at once, soon as they can get the engine started in the launch. Don't give up the ship, old boy! Don't----"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Some one's outside, he whispered. Slowly, as they watched it, the knob described a single revolution. Anthony lifted his revolver."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Who is there?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let me in!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Open the door,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You must not go with them,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shut the door--put the bench back,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let these people go--yes! But you remain. You will--or won't you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why should I? I've decided that life is pretty sweet, after all! Why haven't Jen and his gang broken in here? Why is he waiting? Have you told him help is coming?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have not seen Jen. I have talked with no one."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you will stay in this room until we leave?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But why did you send for them? It was foolish! How will you explain?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They are friends. Such men ask no questions."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But there was no need! She made a despairing gesture with her hands."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your friends could have gone safely. Jen has no interest in--_them_!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But my ship sails."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very good. But you must not leave this house until sunrise."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "When the sailors come from the _Madrusa_ I shall walk out of here----"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And into the arms of death, Peter!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Gracious! Where's everybody?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The men from the _Madrusa_!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Mr. Moore; I am the man from the Jen Kee Road place!"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You were a deck coolie this morning,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shall we wait until sunrise, or----"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Moore! Moore! Where are you?"
}
]
|
28780 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We are alone--alone!"
}
]
|
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