human
I thought so.
gpt
Of course you did. But I didn't almost miss you. I was here ahead of you. I have no objection to your going to Mars, Mr. Sollenar. _Laissez faire._ Provided I can go along.
human
Well, Rufus Sollenar said.
gpt
Liqueur?
human
No, thank you,
gpt
Even your tongue?
human
Of course my tongue, Mr. Sollenar. I taste nothing. I touch nothing. Ermine smiled.
gpt
But I feel no pressure.
human
All right, then, Rufus Sollenar said crisply.
gpt
We have several hours to landing time. You sit and dream your interior dreams, and I'll dream mine.
human
Mr. Sollenar,
gpt
Yes?
human
I am once again with you by appointment as provided under the By-Laws.
gpt
State your business, Mr. Ermine.
human
You are not permitted to lie in an unknown grave, Mr. Sollenar. Insurance policies on your life have been taken out at a high premium rate. The IAB members concerned cannot wait the statutory seven years to have you declared dead. Do what you will, Mr. Sollenar, but I must take care I witness your death. From now on, I am with you wherever you go.
gpt
I don't intend to die. Why should I die, Mr. Ermine?
human
I have no idea, Mr. Sollenar. But I know Cortwright Burr's character. And isn't that he, seated there in the corner? The light is poor, but I think he's recognizable.