human
To whom shall we intrust the deed? asked the Horse.
gpt
There would be too great a risk for either of us to undertake it, I fear. If we were discovered there would at once be an end of all our plans. Our money would be taken, and possibly our lives also.
human
I think I know the very fellow for the job. There is the Sentry who always stands in his wooden box. He is a chap who will do anything to vary the dulness of his life and earn a little money. He told me so the other day. He is both brave and wicked. Let _him_ him do the deed.
gpt
Very well, replied the Horse;
human
I think your idea is good. Will you arrange the matter so that it be carried out without any mistake?
gpt
Leave it to me, replied the other.
human
You need not disturb yourself. The days of the Rabbit are numbered.
gpt
Good! neighed the Horse;
human
Also the cheese-monger, said the Mouse.
gpt
Well, I must go; there is not a moment to be lost if we wish to carry out our plan.
human
Sentry, said he,
gpt
For the sake of money I'm prepared to do anything,
human
Then listen, said the Mouse.
gpt
There is a sum of money that, strictly speaking, ought to be divided between the Rabbit and myself. But the best way appears to be that I should have it all. But that is a little difficult so long as he is alive. So I come to you to ask you if you will kill him, provided I fill your knapsack with gold.
human
Upon that condition, yes, said the ruffian.
gpt
But don't attempt to break it, or I shall put an end to you as well as your friend.
human
Never fear. Rest assured you shall have it,
gpt
Now for the details of the plot, he continued.
human
I am going to propose to the Rabbit a private performance in front of your sentry-box. I shall say I have suggested it in order to vary the terrible dulness of your existence. Having finished our performance I shall lead the way straight forward, _with our backs towards you_. When we have gone a few steps I shall remark loudly, 'That Sentry friend of ours is a smart chap; _he_ knows how to handle the bayonet'. This is to be the signal for you to step quietly out of your box, and, pretending to stumble, stab the Rabbit in the back with your bayonet. This should be quite easy, for he is sure to be walking away on his hind-legs. He has fallen into that habit since he has taken to playing the drum. You and I will, of course, exhibit much grief, and declare that his death was an unfortunate accident. You see the plan offers no difficulty.
gpt
Then if the _plan_ offers no difficulty, _I_ won't, said the Sentry, with a cold-blooded laugh.
human
When is it to be carried out?
gpt
This very day, in about two hours' time, replied the Mouse.
human
Well, good-bye for the present, I think it is all very nicely arranged;