It reminded him of the
feast of Saint Dodekanus which he had witnessed twelve days earlier; it
was even more extravagant. But he now felt himself seasoned to this
kind of display. Besides, he had seen funnier things in Africa; though
not much funnier. Once more his thoughts went back to those laughing
black people, he remembered all of them--the Wabitembes, the M'tezo, the
Kizibubi--what a set of jovial ruffians! How they would have enjoyed
this sunshiny nonsense. And the Bulangas. Really, those Bulangas--
There was a light touch on his shoulder. He turned, and found himself
face to face with Mrs. Meadows. She was smiling and looking ever so
happy.
"Well, Tommy!" she said. "You don't seem to be very pleased to see me.
Why haven't you come to tea lately? And why are you looking so glum?
He's got his leave, after all. I had a cable two days ago. He'll pick
me up here in a fortnight or three weeks. Aren't you glad you needn't
escort me to England?"
"Awfully glad!" he replied, trying to be jocular.
Pages:
682
683
684
685
686
687
688
689
690
691
692
693
694
695
696
697
698
699
700
701
702
703
704
705
706