human
But why go into the enemy's lines without permission? objected Andre.
gpt
Why risk being thought a deserter when you have only to go and ask leave? It seems to me they would be only too glad to accept your services as a spy.
human
I'm not certain that they would accept them, replied the scout, with a return of the perplexed look;
gpt
But, returned Andre,
human
You do me injustice, lad, said Petroff quietly.
gpt
I shall enter the enemy's lines as a real spy. I will visit every point of his position, ascertain the number of his troops, count his guns, and bring in such information as will make the General wink, I hope, at my having acted without orders. It would please me better to go with permission, but I cannot allow the lives of my friends to hang upon the chance humour of a Russian general. You must remember, Andre, that I am not a Russian soldier, and may therefore take upon me to exercise a little more personal liberty than you can. Why, you know, continued the scout, with a touch of humour in his glance, as he rose and made some preliminary preparations,
human
I might refuse to lead you Russians, or might lead you to your destruction.
gpt
You would be shot if you did,
human
And what if I am willing to be shot in a good cause? I should be no greater hero than every man in your armies. But now, Andre, one more shake of your hand. We may never meet again, and I won't part without saying I've taken a fancy to you.
gpt
God knows I can truly say the same to you,
human
And don't be angry, added Petroff, in a gentle tone, as he tightened his belt,
gpt
and of all other blessed human influences, was a better and safer refuge. But what matter? Does not our Creator in all His dealings make use of means? Does He not lead us step by step from a lower to a higher level? There are no ready-made human angels in this life, male or female, with full-grown wings to bear them over the troubles of earth to a state of sudden sanctification. We are in a rebel world, and, when lifted from the pit by a Saviour's hand, the steps by which the Spirit of God leads us upwards are numerous as well as varied, including sometimes--I write without irreverence--such footholds as