human
Do you suspect anyone, Phil?
gpt
I do not. Whom should I suspect? Nothing like this has ever happened in the Sparling show since I have been connected with it.
human
You are right. It won't be healthful for the man who is responsible for this, if I catch him, growled the showman.
gpt
Somebody must be unusually fond of ostrich eggs to go to this length for one. If anyone in this show chances to dine on ostrich egg in the next twenty-four hours we shall know whom to accuse of the theft.
human
I do not think you will get the opportunity,
gpt
What do you mean by that remark?
human
That it was not taken because the thief wanted to eat it. He would not be foolish enough to do that.
gpt
Then why?
human
Probably to get even with Teddy.
gpt
You mean somebody had a grudge against Teddy?
human
Who?
gpt
I do not know.
human
Teddy, who is it in this show who has a grudge against you?
gpt
I don't know of anybody unless it's January,
human
The fool donkey? Bah!
gpt
I guess the donkey did not unlock your trunk and steal your egg, Teddy,
human
I am not going to ask you again whom you suspect. I take it for granted that you will keep your eyes open from now on.
gpt
I certainly shall, Mr. Sparling.
human
If you are unable to find out who is responsible for certain things I am sure there is no use in my trying to do so.
gpt
I do not know about that, Sir. I shall try. If I find out anything worthwhile I shall come to you and tell you.
human
I shall expect you to do so. And, Teddy!
gpt
Yes, sir.
human
You are to say nothing of this occurrence to anyone on the boat. Do not mention that your precious egg has been lost or stolen, nor appear as if anything out of the ordinary had occurred.