human
Well, can we make it, sir?
gpt
he quoted the cynical old French proverb.
human
If nothing gives way, there is a chance.
gpt
If we settle into the sea, do you think that with our damaged floats we can drive ashore without breaking up?
human
I do not, my Captain. There is a heavy sea running, and the surf is bad on the beach. This Rio de Oro coast is cruel. Have you our exact position?
gpt
Almost exactly on the Tropic of Cancer, half-way between Cape Bojador to north of us, and Cape Blanco, to south.
human
Yes, I understand. That brings us to the Tarmanant region of the Sahara. Fate could not have chosen worse for us. But, _c'est la guerre_. All I regret, however, is that in a crippled condition we have to face a war-party of the Beni Harb. Were we intact, and a match for them, how gladly would I welcome battle with that scum of Islam! Ah, the _canaille_!
gpt
You call them dogs, eh? asked the chief.
human
And why?