'It'll be harder for me, dear, because you will be doing great and heroic things, while I shall be able only to wait and watch. But I want you to go.' Her voice broke, and she spoke almost in a whisper. 'And don't forget that you're going for my sake as well as for your own. If you did anything wrong or disgraceful it would break my heart.'
'I swear to you that you'll never be ashamed of me, Lucy,' he said.
She kissed him and smiled. Alec had watched them silently. His heart was very full.
'But we mustn't be silly and sentimental, or Mr. MacKenzie will think us a pair of fools.' She looked at him gaily. 'We're both very grateful to you.'
'I'm afraid I'm starting almost at once,' he said. 'George must be ready in a week.'
'George can be ready in twenty-four hours if need be,' she answered.
The boy walked towards the window and lit a cigarette. He wanted to steady his nerves.
'I'm afraid I shall be able to see little of you during the next few days,' said Alec. 'I have a great deal to do, and I must run up to Lancashire for the week-end.'
'I'm sorry.'
'Won't you change your mind?'