human
Stand right by me,
gpt
Well?
human
Mr. Queed? This is Mr. Hickok, said the incisive voice over the wire.
gpt
Well, what in the mischief are you doing up there?
human
I'm--I'm--transacting some important business--with the Department, said Mr. Surface, and gave Sharlee's hands a desperate squeeze.
gpt
But my--
human
Well, we're transacting some important business down here. Never should have found you but for Mr. Dayne's happening along. Did you know that West had resigned?
gpt
No, has he? But I started--
human
Peace to his ashes. De mortuis nil nisi bonum. The directors are meeting now to elect his successor. Only one name has been mentioned. There's only one editor we'll hear of for the paper. Won't you come back to us, my boy?
gpt
Come? I'd--think it the greatest honor--there's nothing I'd rather have. You are all too--too kind to me--I can't tell you--but--
human
Oh, no buts! But us no buts now! I'll go tell them--
gpt
No--wait, called the young man, hastily.
human
If I come, I don't come as Queed, you know. My name is Henry G. Surface. That may make a difference--
gpt
Come as Beelzebub! said the old man, testily.
human
We've had enough of hiring a _name_ for the _Post_. This time we're after a man, and by the Lord, we've got one!
gpt
You--know?
human
That was the little secret--don't you think it was a nice one? It is your magnificent boast come true.... And you don't even say 'I told you so'!