For Stephen Wickes was a fine stalwart lad, a good soldier, steady as a rock, with a patient, cheery courage that nothing could daunt or break.

But for a man's self was it worth while?
Jack had no thought of wife and family.

There was Adrien.

She had been a great pal before the war, but since his return she had seemed different.
Everyone seemed different.

The war had left many gaps, former pals had formed other ties, many had gone from the town.