human
Now let us go on where we left off just now, Harry suggested.
gpt
You say that we want to find out the number that occurs most often in the cryptogram, and allow that to represent E.
human
That is so, replied Roger.
gpt
Now, let us have a look through it again.
human
Well, the number 34 occurs oftener than any other; that is, if you are adding the first two and last two figures of each group together.
gpt
Wait a moment,
human
Yes, you are right, Harry; the number 34 does occur most frequently; and we can, I am sure, take it as representing the letter E. Now, going upon that assumption, A will be represented by 30, B by 31, C by 32, D by 33, and so on. Now I believe that we have the translation in our own hands. Let us make the experiment--but we ought to write it down as we go along, or else we shall forget part of it perhaps.
gpt
Ay, there is the difficulty, said Harry;
human
Not so fast, not so fast, lad, his friend replied.
gpt
That is a difficulty which we must find means to overcome. Let us have a look round, and first see if there is anything that we can use for a pen. If we can find such a thing, the ink will be an easy matter afterwards.
human
Indeed? exclaimed Harry incredulously.
gpt
I pray you explain how in the world you are going to get a supply of ink?
human
Never mind, retorted Roger with a quiet smile;