human
Have you anything special to do to-night, Ned?
gpt
No, nothing in particular, replied the bank clerk, as he stacked up some bundles of bills.
human
Why do you ask?
gpt
I wanted you to come over to the house for a while.
human
Going to have a surprise party, or something like that?
gpt
No, only I've got something I'd like to show you.
human
A new invention?
gpt
Well, not exactly new. You've seen it before, but not since I've improved it. I'm speaking of my new electric rifle. I've got it ready to try, now, and I'd like to see what you think of it. There's a rifle range over at the house, and we can practice some shooting, if you haven't anything else to do.
human
I haven't, and I'll be glad to come. What are you doing in the bank, anyhow; putting away more of your wealth, Tom?
gpt
Yes, I just made a little deposit. It's some money I got from the government for the patents on my sky racer, and I'm salting it down here until Dad and I can think of a better investment.
human
Good idea. Bring us all the money you can,
gpt
Well, then. I'll expect you over this evening,
human
Yes, I'll be there. Say, Tom, have you heard the latest about Andy Foger?
gpt
No, I haven't heard much since he left town right after I beat him in the aeroplane race at Eagle Park.
human
Well, he's out of town all right, and I guess for a long time this trip. He's gone to Europe.
gpt
To Europe, eh? Well, he threatened to go there after he failed to beat me in the race, but I thought he was only bluffing.
human
No, he's really gone this time.
gpt
Well, I, for one, am glad of it. Did he take his aeroplane along?
human
Yes, that's what he went for. It seems that this Mr. Landbacher, the German who really invented it, and built it with money which Mr. Foger supplied, has an idea he can interest the German or some other European government in the machine. Andy wanted to go along with him, and as Mr. Foger financed the scheme, I guess he thought it would be a good thing to have some one represent him. So Andy's gone.
gpt
Then he won't bother me. Well, I must get along. I'll expect you over to-night,