human
Ah, Martique, my friend, is that you? he said, nodding curtly to the chauffeur.
gpt
It is easy to see you have come from the other end of everywhere. I suppose it is not possible that you have any news of my brother?
human
If monsieur's brother is the Capitaine Felix Laval, _officier de liaison_, with the --th Division, I can give you some news of him,
gpt
It is the same, said the aviator, all trace of ill-humour vanishing as they shook hands.
human
Well, well, he continued after Dennis had told him of his adventure and how he came to be acquainted with his brother.
gpt
Yon will dine with me, and, _ma foi_, I want a good comrade to put me in a better temper.
human
Might I inquire what it is that troubles you?
gpt
Oh, it is too bad! exclaimed his new acquaintance with a despairing shrug of his shoulders.
human
I brought down a German Aviatik this afternoon, and by the greatest good luck in the world it is absolutely unhurt. To-night I had planned a little expedition across into the enemy's country, a friendly visit to a Zeppelin shed, whose existence none of our fellows are aware of. I have overhauled the engines myself; I have got ten beautiful bombs all ready, and now my observer has broken his arm, and I cannot find anyone to assist me.
gpt
Could you be certain of returning to this village by eight o'clock in the morning? he said eagerly,
human
exclaimed Claude Laval.
gpt
I am now the happiest man in all France. Listen! The machine is at the edge of the wood not a kilometre from this spot, and the Zeppelin hangar is in the centre of the Black Forest. Come, let us eat something and drink a bottle of the good red wine. We will give the Boche a fine surprise, and I swear to bring you back in plenty of time for Father Joffre in the morning. Martique, remember, not a word to a living soul, and come you to the café with us; you can attend to that sewing-machine of yours after monsieur and I have gone on our little trip.