I suppose that in the other world people may live a thousand years and always remain eighteen.

I'm nearly eighteen myself." St Aubyn could not help casting a glance of keen interest at the boy as he said this.

A presentiment shot through him that that might actually be the destiny of the pure-souled, enthusiastic young creature who had just uttered the suggestive words.

Austin's long, pale face, slender form, and bright, far-away expression carried with them the idea that perhaps he might not stay very long where he was.

A sudden pang made itself felt as the possibility occurred to him, and he rapidly changed the subject.
"I don't think I'd let my thoughts run too much on mystical questions if I were you, Austin," he said.