"The sooner I go the better," said Stafford. "I must tell you, old fellow, I go in confident hope. If I am wrong—"
"Yes?"
"Everything is over! Would you feel that?"
Eugene was always honest with Stafford. He searched his heart.
"I should be cut up," he said. "But no—not that."
Stafford smiled sadly.
"How I wish I could do things by halves!" he exclaimed.
"You will come back?"
"I'll leave a line for you as I go by. Whatever happens, you have treated me well."
"Good-by, old man. I can't say good luck. When shall I see you?"