Just such a sigh as this might be his last on earth, or it might be the first sign of returning life.
Talbot puts his hand on Conal's cold wrist. The pulse flickers so he scarce can feel it; but it is there.
Operations are redoubled. Sigh after sigh is emitted, and soon--
"Heaven be praised!" cries Captain Talbot, for of his own accord Conal opens his eyes.
He even murmurs something, and shuts them once more, as if in utter weariness he fain would go to sleep.
But that sleep might end in death. No, he must be revived.
The circulation increases.
The life so dear to all is saved, for now Conal can swallow a little brandy.
Duncan's head has fallen on his knee and open palms as he crouches shivering on the snow, and the tears that have welled through his fingers lie in frozen drops on his clothing.
Gently, so gently, steals Talbot up behind him. Gently, so gently, he lays one hand on his shoulder.