"You realize the great risk I am taking," James interrupted the silence as he returned the tea cups and came to stand beside the sixteenth President of the United States of America, in front of the Time Machine.
"You risk your very life, I am sure," agreed Abraham. "The whole world will be against you. Your very existence, your family will be threatened. i cna picture it even now."
"I do not think that kind of future will be favourable for me," muttered James.
"No," agreed the sixteenth president of the United States of America. "I agree. But look at the good it will do the whole nation."
"Of what use is this change if you do not return?" asked James Bogardus.
"Who said I shall not return?" countered Abe.
"You shall have to promise me that you will return when the clock strikes midnight." said James solemnly. He knew very well how easy it was to get carried away by the sites and scenes of the future, by the various contraptions, the enormous buildings and even the people. He was willing to take the risk of allowing Abe a glimpse of the future, but only a glimpse. Nothing more.
"I promise to be back before midnight," Abraham Lincoln said solemnly.
As soon as the decision was made, James wasted no time. As he set up the panel that contained the buttons, he issued out instructions to Abraham. He started by telling him what to expect and how to behave before stopping himself short, his fingers hovering over the panel.
"Which year do you want to go? And where?" James asked.
"You have been to the year 2000," replied Abraham. "The new millenium. Let me also see what America has accomplished by then."
"Which state?" asked James as he punched a few more dials.
"Illinois," replied Abraham, "Let me see what has become of Chicago."
"Very well then." said James as he punched a few more, then stepped towards the door and threw it back. Steam rose from within the enclosure, making the President hesitate.
"Go in now!" exclaimed James above the noise of the machine.
The Sixteenth President ran into the closet - like contraption and felt the door slam shut in his very bones. He experienced momentary relief when he heard James shout above the din."Remember that you are to wait until you hear the whistle before opening the door! And return to the very spot at midnight!"
James' last word seemed to echo in his head, as Abraham Lincoln lost his breath suddenly. It was then that he wondered if this was not a foolish idea afterall.
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