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the films that are coming out, the recruitment ones especially that show it as a very civilised, enjoyable campaign. How could I not be sold on that? If its not that perfect I might change my mind. Im joking by the way,” Grey said, as Dick was looking at him as though he was taking him seriously. “I know, but I still cant see what the draw is for you. Ill go if Im drafted, but I wont break my neck to.” “Its got to be done, mate. Evil still thrives. Evil that you couldnt make up, suffering that you cant put into words. I may be just one man, but thats one more against evil. Even one person increases the odds.” “I wouldnt like to give you your odds. Its…” “Its pot luck. I know that. All I can do is train hard and be the best soldier that I can. The odds are slightly better for me than for most,” Grey said cryptically. “Huh? Your running?” Grey nodded, letting him believe that was it. Grey had learnt long ago that absolute honesty led to dark places– necessity required a level of dishonesty that did not sit comfortably with him. He was reckless in mentioning his odds, scratching the surface of the „forbidden topic, broaching a subject he wouldnt expand on. Lately hed been getting careless– there were enough eyes boring into him, scrutinising his behaviour without him giving clues. Perhaps it was because he was leaving Keokuk– he did want to return and if he didnt watch his step that option would not be available. “This should be an Olympic Year and they took my chance of a medal from me. This is personal, Dick, and I plan on showing the „Master Race that theres Americans much fitter than them, too quick to be killed,” Grey said hyperbolically, putting on the smokescreen to cover up his error of judgement. When he trained regularly he was one of the best 5000 metre runners in the state and probably in the top 100 for the country– even a Bronze in the Olympics was highly unlikely. “It wont be the first time Hitlers been embarrassed by an American athlete.” “Well have to go out for a drink before you go.” “Im going to be spending next week training flat out so Im going out next Saturday as the farewell drinks session. Youre more than welcome.” “Ill be there.” Grey had been cajoled by his friends into making a big night of his farewell. All he wanted was a quiet night at his local where he would drink up to his usual limit, five pints over two hours. An all night pub crawl where they would be plying drink down his throat all night…he was loose-lipped enough sober all of a sudden and this concerned him. Everyone knew he preferred smoking to drinking and he clung to the thin hope that he could convince them to treat him to cigars over booze. Now those odds were slim… Mid-afternoon Grey called Mrs Saunders out to the garden to see the finished product, and after she requested one alteration, which took close to an hour, Grey called her out again and she gushed over her new garden. “Its wonderful. Youve captured exactly what I had in my mind. Ill recommend you to my friends,” she said effusively. “Please do,” Grey said, leading the conversation with her as Dick stood back as she had made it clear she thought little of him. She recognised that Grey was well-mannered and respectful, whereas his apprentice had a noticeable attitude about him.“If you need any more work done as a previous customer youll go straight to the front of the queue.” “Wait here,” she said, returning to the house, her brow heavy as she left them. “What now?” Dick muttered, noticing the sudden change in her mood. “Shes already paid – lets get out of here.” “Do you want to start loading up? Ill help you in a minute.” Mrs Saunders came back out clutching a small sum of money, which Dick espied from afar, having a hawks eye when it came to anything involving cash. She was glad Dick was out of earshot putting their things away as she felt awkward enough. “Youve done a good job here. I know this is your last job before you go overseas and Id like to give you a littleextra...” “Theres no need…” “I knew youd say that, and that makes me want to do this. Its only five dollars, James. Treat yourself,” she said insistently. “It would go straight to Mr Grant. We dont pocket tips. Im just glad youre pleased with the finished product.” “Im absolutely delighted. Ill be inviting over everyone I know to see it. Ill