human
Can I have a few words with you, Mr. Dunne?
gpt
Great Scott!
human
Certainly, Miss Alice,
gpt
I can rely upon your honor that what passes between us shall be strictly confidential?
human
Yes, miss.
gpt
You will not even reveal the fact that I met you?
human
I will not, but will not your aunt miss you?
gpt
No, she retired over an hour ago. She is a heavy sleeper; even the prospect of a visit from burglars would not keep her awake as long as the prospect was only a suspicion. She is a very brave lady; my aunt is a very remarkable woman.
human
No doubt; but now what can I do for you?
gpt
A crisis compels me to be singularly frank with you.
human
It is better so if I am to serve you in any way.
gpt
I am about to make an extraordinary request.
human
All right.
gpt
It is possible those burglars may visit our house to-night.
human
Yes, it is possible, not probable. I tell you now I am only exercising due precaution, I do not really anticipate a visit from the housebreakers.
gpt
I do.
human
You have a reason for your conclusion?
gpt
I have.
human
What is it?
gpt
Never mind; but I wish to make a request.
human
Proceed.
gpt
If the robbers do enter our house, the moment you spring upon them they will attempt to escape of course.
human
That will naturally be what they will attempt, I should say.
gpt
If you surprise them they will be defeated.
human
Certainly.
gpt
They will not have taken anything.
human
Possibly not.
gpt
Then let them escape.
human
That is your request?
gpt
Yes.
human
It is indeed a very singular one.
gpt
I cannot explain why I make such a request, but please let them escape. I repeat I cannot explain why I make the request.
human
You cannot explain why you make such a strange request?
gpt
No.
human
You need not.
gpt
Thank you, and I am to understand that my request is granted?
human
Oh, no.
gpt
What do you mean?
human
I mean you need not make any explanation, that is all.