'Have you heard anything?'
'I know Springfield has been home, and that he's been to see her. I heard from Buller that they were engaged.'
'You mean that it's settled? Has it been publicly announced?' His voice was tense.
'I don't think so. At any rate, I've not seen it in the papers.'
Again he was silent for a few seconds, and noting the far-away look in his eyes, I waited in silence.
'Springfield is still afraid of me,' he said presently.
'Why? Have you seen him?'
'Yes. He and St. Mabyn are still as thick as peas in a pod. They were both at Vimy Ridge, and afterwards at Ypres and Messines.
'Did you speak to them?'
'Rather,' and he laughed curiously. 'I had to.'