Читать книгу Unconditional Surrender онлайн

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"Yes, yes, I suppose so. Somewhere," said Spruce. "Everything is over here. I was just having a few words with a very interesting New Writer. We always particularly welcome contributions from service men. It's part of our policy."

The central knot of guests opened and revealed Ludovic, his appetite for appreciation wetted but far from satisfied, gazing resentfully towards Spruce's back.

"Ludovic," said Guy.

"That is the man I was speaking of. You know him?"

"He saved my life," said Guy.

"How very odd."

"I've never had a chance to thank him."

"Well, do so now. But don't take him away. I was in the middle of a fascinating conversation."

"I think I'll go off with Per."

"Yes, do."

The gap had closed again. Guy pressed through and held out his hand to Ludovic who raised his oyster eyes with an expression of unmitigated horror. He took the hand limply and looked away.

"Ludovic, surely you remember me?"

"It is most unexpected."

"Hookforce. Crete."

"Oh yes, I remember."

"I've always been hoping to run into you again. There's so much to say. They told me you saved my life." Ludovic mutely raised his hand to the ribbon of the M.M. It was as though he were beating his breast in penitence. "You don't seem very pleased to see me."