human
Sir, he said,
gpt
Who's going to do it, and how is it to be done?
human
This thing is a scourge of the ocean. It destroys ships, therefore it is your duty to destroy it,
gpt
We will harpoon it, if you like, though I do not know why I should risk the lives of my crew. Where's Bowline? Pass the word for Bowline,
human
Get your harpoon, my man,
gpt
Not me, sir, said the sailor firmly.
human
I wouldn't harm a scale of the critter's back, were it ever so near. We shall all be sent to the bottom of the sea if I do.
gpt
You see the feeling of my men; what can I do?
human
I'll do it myself, said the man of science grandly.
gpt
If no one will attack this monster, the honor and the glory of the task shall belong to me. Give me a boat and loaded guns. It will be hard, indeed, if I cannot put a bullet in him, and lay the mighty brute low. Who will volunteer for this splendid task?
human
What! Are you all cowards? Will no one volunteer?
gpt
I'm with you, sir! he exclaimed.
human
Can't stand by and see a gentleman left alone. I'm not afraid of the creature.