er. I'd go myself only the Swahilis won't fight
unless I lead them.... Will you take that post?'

The blood rushed to George's head, and he felt his ears singing.

'I?'

'I could order you to go, but the job's too dangerous for me to force it
on anyone. If you refuse I shall call the others together and ask
someone to volunteer.'

George did not answer.

'I won't hide from you that it means almost certain death. But there's
no other way of saving ourselves. On the other hand, if you show perfect
courage at the moment the Arabs attack and the Turkana find we've given
them the slip, you may escape. If you do, I promise you that nothing
shall be said of all that has happened here.'

George sprang to his feet, and once more on his lips flashed the old,
frank smile.

'All right! I'll do that. And I thank you with all my heart for giving
me the chance.'

Alec held out his hand, and he gave a sigh of relief.

'I'm glad you've accepted. Whatever happens you'll have done one brave
action in your life.'

George flushed. He wanted to speak, but hesitated.

'I should like to ask you a great favour,' he said at last.

Alec waited for him to go on.

'You won't let Lucy know the mess I've made of things, will you? Let her
think I've done all she wanted me to do.'

'Very well,' answered Alec gently.

'Will you give me your word of honour that if I'm killed you won't say
anything that will lead anyone to suspect how I came by my death.'

Alec looked at him silently. It flashed across his mind that it might be
necessary under certain circumstances to tell the whole truth. George
was greatly moved. He seemed to divine the reason of Alec's hesitation.

'I have no right to ask anything of you. Already you've done far more
for me than I deserved. But it's for Lucy's sake that I implore you not
to give me away.'

Alec, standing entirely still, uttered the words slowly.

'I give you my word of honour that whatever happens and in whatever
circumstances I find myself placed, not a word shall escape me that
could lead Lucy to suppose that you hadn't been always and in every way
upright, brave, and honourable. I will take all the responsibility of
your present action.'

'I'm awfully grateful to you.'

Alec moved at last. The strain of their conversation was become almost
intolerable. Alec's voice became cheerful and brisk.

'I think there's nothing more to be said. You must be ready to start in
half an hour. Here's you