human
I'd like to go to space someday, he remarked.
gpt
But of course that's out. I wouldn't want to rip myself away from the year 3876 forever. You don't know what I'd give to see the suns come up over Albireo V, or to watch the thousand moons of Capella XVI. But I can't do it. He shook his head gravely.
human
Well, I better not dream. I like Earth and I like the sort of life I lead. And I'm glad I ran into you, too--we'll make a good team, you and me, Donnell.
gpt
Team? What are you talking about?
human
I'll take you on as my protege. Make a decent gambler out of you. Set you up. We can go travelling together, see the world again. You've been to space; you can tell me what it's like out there. And----
gpt
Hold on, Alan said sharply.
human
You've got things mixed up a little bit. I'm going to Procyon on the _Valhalla_ at the end of this week. I appreciate everything you've done for me, but if you think I'm going to jump ship permanently and spend the rest of my life----
gpt
You'll stay on Earth, all right, Hawkes said confidently.
human
You're in love with the place. You know yourself you don't want to spend the next seven decades of your life shuttling around in your old man's starship. You'll check out and stay here. I know you will.
gpt
I'll bet you I don't!
human
That bet is herewith covered, Hawkes drawled.
gpt
I never pass up a sure thing. Is ten to one okay--your hundred against my thousand that you'll stay?
human
I don't want to bet with you, Max. I'm going back on the _Valhalla_. I----
gpt
Go ahead. Take my money, if you're so sure.
human
All right, I will! A thousand credits won't hurt me!
gpt
I'm tired. Let's get some sleep.
human
Fair enough, Hawkes said. He got up, touched a button in the wall, and a panel slid back, exposing a bed.
gpt
You sack out here. I'll wake you in the morning and we'll go looking for your brother Steve.