“Yes,” said Rekh-marā, “and perhaps, with it, Death.”
“It’s to bring us our hearts’ desire,” said Robert.
“Who knows,” said the Priest, “what things undreamed-of and infinitely desirable lie beyond the dark gates?”
“Oh, don’t,” said Jane, almost whimpering.
The learned gentleman raised his head suddenly.
“Why not,” he suggested, “go back into the Past? At a moment when the Amulet is unwatched. Wish to be with it, and that it shall be under your hand.”
It was the simplest thing in the world! And yet none of them had ever thought of it.
“Come,” cried Rekh-marā, leaping up. “Come now!”
“May—may I come?” the learned gentleman timidly asked. “It’s only a dream, you know.”
“Come, and welcome, oh brother,” Rekh-marā was beginning, but Cyril and Robert with one voice cried, “No.”