He disappeared in the house and Billy stumbled off on his errand.
News of Jennie the next day was equivocal. The colonel returned at noon. When Billy collared him after lunch he pursed his lips and shook his head.
“Not too good, son,” he said. “So far, no better and no worse. Weyman won’t commit himself one way or the other.”
He swung away toward headquarters, and Billy falling into step alongside followed into his office.
From his desk the colonel looked up.
“What else, son?”
“This,” said Billy. He drew a white envelope from the pocket of his tunic and laid it on the desk.
“I imagine,” said the colonel, “I can guess the contents.”
Billy nodded.
“Will you approve it, sir?”