“Oh, quite easily.”
“Well, it’s this: I’ve got to get away for a time—out of this. I ain’t a child, ain’t used to walkin’ a straight line. Never had so many rules to live by since I was a small boy. Navy was nothin’ to it—and two years! Two years—” He clutched his hair with both hands and shouted: “I’ve got to get away for a bit! Do you hear? Got to get away! Ain’t used —”
“Do you mean that you want to go away and drink?”
France’s jaw fell. He took a step forward.
“What d’you mean? Who’s ever said—”
“No one in particular. But one learns a good deal in two years. Didn’t you used to drink now and again—disappear —”
“What if I did? I’ll wring your neck if you peach —”
“I haven’t the least idea of telling any one. It is the sort of family secret one doesn’t share. Where do you intend to go?”
“I’d hardly thought—it doesn’t matter. How can I fool him? If he found me out, he’d chuck me, cut me down to the last penny, he’s such a damned milksop—and in my shoes, in my shoes! Think for me. My brain’s no good. It’s on fire. Let him find out and it’s all up with you, too, my lady. It’s your business to stand by me. Wonder I didn’t think of that before.”
“You’ll go to Paris to-morrow to consult a heart specialist —”