“To be snatched up again by some debt-ridden pimp who wants to escape his creditors,” said Holles, his tone betraying at last some of the bitterness fermenting in his soul.
Albemarle stood sorrowfully regarding him. “This hits you hard, Randal, I know.”
The Colonel recovered and forced a laugh.
“Pooh! Hard hits have mostly been my portion.”
“I know.” Albemarle paced to the window and back, his head sunk between his shoulders. Then he came to a halt before the Colonel. “Keep me informed of where you are lodged, and look to hear from me again as soon as may be. Be sure that I will do my best.”
The Colonel’s glance kindled again. It was a flicker of the expiring flame of hope.
“You really think that something else will offer?”
His grace paused before answering, and, in the pause, the sorrowful gravity of his face increased.
“To be frank with you, Randal, I hardly dare to think it. Chances for such as you are, as you understand, not ... frequent. But the unexpected may happen sooner than we dare to hope. If it does, be sure I’ll not forget you. Be sure of that.”