"Partners, then, it shall be. A strange creed. A helping hand to-day
and a knife in the back to-morrow. But I shall follow you, monsieur."
"You will follow?"
"In this path as in others. If you refuse to admit even a truce
between us, I agree. I shall keep out of your way as much as possible.
Only--I would not have you think me ungrateful."
I could never forbear a smile when he was serious. "We shall probably
think very little about each other," I said comfortably. "Once settled
into routine we shall have work to fill our thought. You will learn to
do your share. I think you willing."
"Indeed I am willing, monsieur."
"Good. So we shall work hard, sleep early, and the months will pass
before we know. Let us not talk of trust or friendship, since our ways
are divided."
He bowed. "You are right, monsieur. And I meant only this,--I will
try not to be an irritation. You will try not to think of me as such.
You agree?"
I smiled again. "Yes. Partners for the night," I reminded him. "I am
gratified, Monsieur Starling, that you see the matter so reasonably.
There is a gulf between us, and we cannot change it." We did not speak
again till we reached Pierre at the shore.
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