Heaven send it may come speedily and prosperously! But I have no fear of that.' 'Fear!' cried Martin.

'Why, who has?
What are a few months?
What is a whole year?
When I come gayly back, with a road through life hewn out before me, then indeed, looking back upon this parting, it may seem a dismal one.

But now! I swear I wouldn't have it happen under more favourable auspices, if I could; for then I should be less inclined to go, and less impressed with the necessity.' 'Yes, yes.

I feel that too.

When do you go ?' 'To-night.