It was indeed a startling echo. At times even our whispers seemed to multiply and flock on wings, and come rustling back.
“There’s something still worse,” added Beelo.
“What is it?”
“I don’t know. They would never tell me.”
...I wondered whether he had felt the sudden leap of my heart. He must, for he snuggled closer, withdrew his hand from mine, caressed my cheek, and whispered:
“We’ll be brave.”
“Yes, lad, but if we knew only a little we should be the better prepared.”
He was silent.
“You know nothing about it?” I insisted.
“Nothing at all.”