human
The enemy ships might dare to come to Wandl, but I shall not wait for that. All my spaceships are very nearly ready. If there is to be a battle, it shall be far from here, in the neighborhood of the enemy worlds. We are at this time about sixty-two million of your miles from the Earth, a third less than that from Mars, and about a third more from Venus. I understand, Martian, that you are skilled in space warfare.
gpt
I have given you a vessel to command. You will be surprised to know its name: the _Star-Streak_.
human
But you destroyed it, Great Master!
gpt
Only wrecked it, Martian girl. It is repaired now. You, Molo--and your sister to help you--who could command it to more advantage? All your own weapons, and ours of Wandl have been added. You may select your crew. Is it to your liking?
human
Yes, Great Master.
gpt
You will be housed in this city, Wor, in the dwelling-globe you occupied before. Keep your prisoners with you, if you like.
human
These two Earthmen....
gpt
Settle that later. I do not want the annoyance.
human
Keep Wyk with you, to guard the prisoners; he will also attend your needs. In the battle, Martian, I expect great things of you and your _Star-Streak_.
gpt
Great Master, you will not be disappointed.
human
And prisoners, but not too many. Bring me a few young specimens like these, representative of Venus, Mars and the Earth. I want both of the sexes, an equal number of each.
gpt
Yes, Great Master.
human
The warning signal is coming. You will now see our first contact.