"I did it intentionally, thinking this thing should be settled at once, better at once—and for always, General."
"I have found out since you went what I never suspected before. I am a very lonely old man, for all my wealth and my position."
"We can still play chess—if not to-night; still on other nights. To-night, I too want to talk to you."
He made no answer, but moved away and walked about the room again in silence; throwing himself at length into a lounge chair and staring in front of him blankly and disconsolately.
After a time he roused himself and gave a deep, long sigh.
"Very well. We must leave it there, I suppose."
"No, we can't leave it there, General. I told you I wanted to talk to you." I left my chair and taking one close to his side, I laid my hand on his. "I need a friend so sorely. Won't you be that friend?"
His fingers closed on my hand, and he held it in a firm clasp.
"With all my heart, yes," he answered. "What is the matter?"
His ready assent moved me so that for the moment I could not reply.