human
Not home to the aunts! I told you I'd never go back to live with them, and my father wouldn't send me. But there's to be a long march---- Oh, have I said what I oughtn't? Why? Since he _must_ know if he joins? Anyhow, I can't stay here many days longer--I mean, for the present. I'm to be sent to a wonderful place. It will be a great romance.
gpt
Sanda, it is irrelevant to talk of that now,
human
Forgive me! I forgot, father. May I--name the new soldier, and wish him joy?
gpt
St. George! broke in Sanda.
human
That is to be his name. I christen him, close to the flag. Soldier, saint, slayer of dragons. She did not add
gpt
Soldier Saint George, then, DeLisle began again, smiling,
human
Soldier,
gpt
I thank you, sir, and I will take your advice in everything else. But I don't want things made easy.
human
You may regret your obstinacy.
gpt
Oh, father, pleaded Sanda,
human
In his place, said Colonel DeLisle, shrugging his shoulders,
gpt
I suppose I should do what he does. What _I_ might do, isn't the question, however. But I've said enough.... Now I have to get back to barracks. For you, Sanda, this must be 'good-bye,' I fear, to the friend of your journey.
human
My friend for always, the girl amended, holding out her hand to Max.
gpt
And I'd rather say 'Au revoir' than 'Good-bye'; we shall meet again--away in the desert, perhaps.
human
Good-bye, then--Soldier of the Legion.
gpt
If he doesn't change his mind, muttered DeLisle.
human
There's still time.
gpt
I shall not change my mind,