human
I want to commend you two boys on your good work a while ago. I think that traitor would have tried anything if you hadn't been there. He might even have tried to kill me or the professor.
gpt
No need for us to be angry with each other, he said smoothly.
human
I realize that when we had our two little run-ins you were carrying out your duties, and I apologize for behaving the way I did. How about it? Can we shake and forget it?
gpt
You know, said Barret,
human
I've heard a lot about you three cadets of the _Polaris_ unit. Especially you, Manning. I understand that you know almost as much about electronics as your instructor at the Academy.
gpt
I like my work.
human
Well, blast my jets! roared Astro.
gpt
That's the first time I have ever heard Manning accept a compliment gracefully. The big Venusian turned to Barret.
human
He is not only the finest astrogator in the whole high, wide, and deep, he said sincerely,
gpt
Is that so? murmured Barret politely.
human
Well, Manning, you must have some ideas about the work that's going on here.
gpt
I sure have, said Roger.
human
And I see a lot of things here that could be done a lot easier.
gpt
Hum, mused Barret.
human
You know something. I think I might be able to relieve you two of guard duty. After all, if Corbett can get out of it, I don't see why I can't put your talents to work for us here. How about it?
gpt
That would be terrific, Mr. Barret!
human
Call me Dave, Astro. We're friends now, remember?
gpt
Sure, Dave, stuttered Astro.
human
But listen, we'd do anything to be taken off this detail and get Firehouse off our necks.
gpt
All right. I'll see what I can do.