"I have written a lengthy prose poem while I was away, so you see I have not altogether wasted my time. Well, you will pardon me for renewing our acquaintance so abruptly; but I must get home and get a little sleep now. Very pleased to have met you again."
And Ojen walked off.
Coldevin shouted after him:
"But it is the 17th of May to-day!"
Ojen turned and looked surprised.
"Well, what of it?"
Coldevin shook his head and laughed shortly.
"Nothing. Nothing at all. I only wanted to see if you remembered it. And I see that you remembered it perfectly."
"Yes," said Ojen, "one does not altogether forget the teachings of childhood days."
Coldevin stood there and looked after him. He was only waiting for the processions to start. His coat was beginning to be rather shiny; it was carefully brushed, but shabby; in the left lapel was fastened securely a little silk bow in the Norwegian colours.