“Separation, and hopelessness of ever seeing them again, are a torment I find unendurable.”
“Well, sir,” she repeated, but this time with more softness, and with sympathy in the true blue eyes.
“Did not your brother lose his wife some two years ago? I was told he did.”
“He did. But I do not see the relevancy of that to what you have just been saying.”
“Then your brother has actually suffered what I am only dreading I may have to suffer. He can never, by any possibility, see his wife again.”
Poor Alice was sorely puzzled. She could only wonder what he was coming to, and acquiesce.
“But was he really fond of her?”
“I cannot imagine, Captain Tournier, why you should ask such a question. I am glad you did not ask him.”
“Oh, but I have a reason for asking. Of your charity, bear with me a little longer. But