human
I don't like it, she said.
gpt
It--it's horrid somehow--wicked looking. She shot a quick glance at him.
human
You say this is going to be of value to the world!
gpt
Then why are you in danger? Why aren't you protected as someone who-- Why are you in danger?
human
It's this way, dear, he said.
gpt
When anything great enough is discovered there is bound to be competition. I found the stuff but I haven't the capital to exploit it. I took my samples to a ring of financiers who are backing me.
human
Mr. Torrington? Mr. Cassis?
gpt
Cranbourne--Frayne--that crowd. By sheer bad luck another ring got news of what was going on and are moving heaven and earth to get a share in the plunder.
human
So it's plunder now,
gpt
From their point of view.
human
And from yours?
gpt
Achievement--a game.
human
That you're willing to risk your life for.
gpt
One doesn't think of that,
human
I do,
gpt
Old Kipling, as you call him, wrote for men. What did he know about _me_?
human
Enough to guess you wouldn't have much use for us if we shirked standing our chances.
gpt
The chances being?
human
The assault or favour of the other side.
gpt
Favour?
human
Listen to this, he said and read:
gpt
Did you meet him?
human
No fear.
gpt
Oh, I don't know, she said,
human
I don't understand. But if this radium belongs to your side already----
gpt
That's just it, he explained.
human
I haven't got the concession yet. They know that--it's what makes 'em so devilish active. You'll understand they'll do their best to prevent me getting to the place.
gpt
Their best? D'you mean they'd----
human
Lord, no. There'd be no point in that unless they had the map reference first.
gpt
You'll be gone three weeks?
human
That's all.
gpt
They'll follow you?
human
You bet they'll try.
gpt
Suppose they got you! Tony! _Tony_, they might try and make you speak.
human
It's true. Men are brutes--vile beasts--where money is concerned. Oh, I hate this--hate every bit of it. Power--healing--it's only another name for the money grab--the horrible cutthroat money grab. Tony, you shan't go--I won't let you go--I'll prevent you by every means----
gpt
Now, my dear, he begged, putting his arms about her,
human
Is this place abroad?
gpt
I can't tell that even to you.
human
When are you starting?
gpt
Probably in three days' time--latish.
human
You're determined to go?
gpt
I must.
human
Nothing I can say will prevent you?
gpt
I'm sorry, dear.
human
Hm! said Isabel.
gpt
Then I suppose we'd better make the most of the time that's left.