We both were smiling, and I for one was forcing my gay spirits, for now that the moment had arrived, I knew that chance might well make of our gay adieux an endless separation.

Lana had wandered a little way apart; I glanced at Lois, then turned and joined her. She laid her hand on my arm, as though her knees could scarcely prop her, and turned to me a deathly face.

“Euan,” she breathed, “I have said adieu to him. Somehow, I know that he and I shall never meet again� . Tell him I pray for him — for his soul� . And mine� . And that before he goes he shall do the thing I bid him do� . And if he will not — tell him I ask God’s mercy on him� . Tell him that, Euan.”

“Yes,” I said, awed.