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Rh

[Surprised]

You’re sailing?

[Very hurriedly]

Yes—going to study over there for a year or so. I haven’t told anyone. I came out today to say good-bye. You won’t be able to reach me again. I’ll be out of town visiting.

[Then elatedly]

And now for your secret! It ought to make you very happy, Sam. I know how much you’ve wished for it, so I’m going to tell you although Nina’ll be furious with me. She was saving it to surprise you with at her own proper time—

[Still more elatedly]

—but I’m selfish enough to want to see you happy before I go!

[Not daring to believe what he hopes—stammering]

What—what is it, Ned?

[Clapping him on the back—with strange joviality]

You’re going to be a father, old scout, that’s the secret!

[Then as just stares at him dumbly in a blissful satisfaction, he rattles on]

And now I’ve got to run. See you again in a year or so. I’ve said good-bye to Nina. Good-bye, Sam.

[He takes his hand and clasps it]