human
Don't worry, he presently said quietly.
gpt
I didn't have half a doubt for even a second. I was simply getting a kick out of the way you two received my little bombshell. However, I must be deadly serious about this. It isn't an everyday assignment. You stand one chance of bringing back those two, and nine hundred and ninety-nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety-nine chances of not living to see the next sun rise. There is one big thing in your favor, though, as regards pulling off this stunt successfully. It's that nobody but a wild-brained chap like me would ever think of trying it. In other words, the fact that it is practically impossible makes it just that much more possible. If you get what I mean?
human
Close enough, I guess, Dave grunted.
gpt
In other words, if and when we do show up at their H.Q., neither of them will think its strictly on the level. And while they are mentally fanning the air trying to get the picture, we'll have the perfect chance to grab them.
human
Exactly, Major Barber said emphatically.
gpt
You could go in there dressed as Santa Claus and they wouldn't disbelieve you any less. However, I don't plan for you to pop in dressed up as a couple of Saint Nicks.
human
Well, that's good news, anyway! Freddy Farmer got out with a sigh of relief.
gpt
To get down to cases, though, sir, just what do you plan for us to do? Perhaps it would be better if we got on with that part of the business.
human
Good old Freddy Farmer! Dave chuckled.
gpt
Always has to find out things. Just can't wait.
human
Well, I guess there's no sense in his waiting any longer, Major Barber grunted with a grin.
gpt
Or you either, Dawson. Yes, I have plans for you. Every move worked out in detail. Before I explain them, let me say this, though.
human
The old saying about 'the best laid plans of mice and men,' and so forth, applies here very much, he went on presently.
gpt
I've plotted out every move you are to make, taking in, I hope, every little thing that might happen to the contrary. But that's exactly the point. I mean, something that I haven't even dreamed of _may_ happen. And _if_ it does, the chances are that your operating schedule will be knocked forty ways from Sunday, and you'll be strictly on your own, and in the keeping of God.
human
That sort of thing has happened before, and we're still here,
gpt
And how! Dave breathed softly, as for the instant his brain raced backward in memory.
human
Fact is, nothing has ever worked out exactly as we planned and expected. And I don't think it ever does.
gpt
I'm making that thought unanimous! Major Barber said grimly.
human
But we can always hope there'll be a first time. And I'm hoping this will be it. Now, edge up closer to this desk so's you can get a good look at this mosaic reconnaissance map of the area that concerns you two.