fullest capacity, and he also broke into a laugh. “Why, Newman—I’ll be blowed! Where in the world—I declare—who would have thought? You know you have changed.” 

 “You haven’t!” said Newman. 

 “Not for the better, no doubt. When did you get here?” 

 “Three days ago.” 

 “Why didn’t you let me know?” 

 “I had no idea you were here.” 

 “I have been here these six years.” 

 “It must be eight or nine since we met.” 

 “Something of that sort. We were very young.” 

 “It was in St. Louis, during the war. You were in the army.” 

 “Oh no, not I! But you were.” 

 “I believe I was.” 

 “You came out all right?” 

 “I came out with my legs and arms—and with satisfaction. All that seems very far away.” 

 “And how long have you been in Europe?” 

 “Seventeen days.” 

 “First time?” 

 “Yes, very much so.” 

 “Made your everlasting fortune?” 

 Christopher Newman was silent a moment, and then with a tranquil smile he answered, “Yes.” 

 Prev. P 12/316 next