human
I know how friendly you two were, he said soberly.
gpt
That's why I chose you to go and find out, if you can, what happened to him and the other two ships.
human
Journeyman! he mused.
gpt
Why, he was like an older brother to me. And now ... he's gone.
human
Did you have any radio reports at all from any of the three ships concerning the nature of the red spot?
gpt
None that gave definite information, replied Stone.
human
From each of the three ships we received reports right up to the instant when the red area was approached. From each of the three came a vague description of the peculiarity of the ground ahead of them: it seems to glitter with a queer metallic sheen. Then, from each of the three, as they passed over the boundary--nothing! All radio communication ceased as abruptly as though they'd been stricken dead.
gpt
That's all I can tell you, little enough, God knows. Something ominous and strange is contained in that red spot: but what its nature may be, we cannot even guess. I want you to go there and find out.
human
I'll be leaving to-night, sir. Or sooner if you like. I could go this afternoon: in an hour--
gpt
To-night is soon enough, said Stone with a smile.
human
Now, who do you want to accompany you?