I bit my lip. I clenched my fists.
My eyes filled with tears.
"I beg your pardon," said I, "but you've been so quick."
"That sort of thing can't be quick enough," said Jaffe, smiling.
"I can't help worrying, Otto," said I.
He took me by the shoulders, turned me about, and gave me a gentle push toward the door.
"If the professor allows it?"
"I'm right now," said I. "Can I go in?"
"Very well, but no talking," replied Jaffe. "And only for a moment.
She must not be excited."
I could see only a haze of light swimming in water. I blinked. The light danced and sparkled.
I did not dare to wipe my eyes lest Pat should think I was crying because things were so bad.
I ventured only a smile into the room.
Then I turned quickly away.
"Was it right to bring you?" Koster asked the professor.
"It was as well," said Jaffe.
"I can take you back first thing in the morning."
"I'd sooner not," said Jaffe.
"I'll drive reasonably this time, of course." "I think I'll stay here the day just to keep an eye on things..
Is your bed available?" he asked me.
I nodded.
"Good. Then I'll sleep here.
Can you get put up in the village?"
"Yes.
Shall I get you a toothbrush and pyjamas?"
"Not necessary.
I have everything.
I am always prepared for emergencies—if not exactly for racing."
"I apologise," said Koster. "I don't wonder if you are annoyed."
"I'm not," said Jaffe.
"Then I'm sorry I didn't tell you the truth at once."
Jaffe laughed.
"You have a poor opinion of doctors.
Well, off you go.
I'll stay here."
I hastily assembled a few things for Koster and myself.
We walked in to the village.
"Are you tired?" I asked.
"No," said he. "Let us sit awhile somewhere."
After an hour I began to get restive.
"If he stays, then it must be dangerous, Otto," said I. "Why should he else.
"I guess it's just a precaution," answered Koster.
"He is very fond of Pat. He told me so, as we were coming.
He attended her mother, too."
"Did she . . ."
"I don't know," said Koster quickly. "May have been something quite different.
Feel like sleep yet?"
"You go, Otto.
I'd like just once more . . . You know, from a distance . . ."
"Right.