"Maybe—I don't know how long. But before I go I've a secret to tell you."
"Something you have never told me?"
"Something I have never told anybody. Something you must not tell."
"Not even my mother? I tell her everything."
"Not even your mother, nor father."
"What is it, John?" and Ann's face was troubled as she asked the question.
"You solemnly promise you will not tell—at least not until I come back?"
"I'd like to know what it is before I promise. It doesn't seem right to keep things from Father and Mother. I never do."
"Not even my secrets? Don't you trust me, Ann?"