< previous page page_221 next page >

Page 221
Her voice rose with each passionate question.
Morgan said, "Believe it or not, I know very few professional soldiers who don't ask exactly the same questions. The closer to combat, the more often they ask. The difference between us is that I've had my reality check. You say, 'Why can't there be peace?' The soldier says, 'If we have to fight, let's fight to win.' Then peace will come."
"So that's it? That's reality? Is that all there is? Slogans and belligerent talk? It doesn't leave much to hope for."
"One step at a time. We're learning. The Russians thought a nuclear war could be fought and won. Then came Chernobyl. Most of them know better now. Small steps. Morsels of common sense, no matter how bitter. That's the way it works, Anna," Morgan said gently.
"I wonder if we will survive the learning," Anna said wearily. She pulled the blanket up around her shoulders and closed her eyes.
She slept fitfully for about an hour, twitching and turning. When she woke, Morgan was beside her, holding a steaming cup of coffee. Anna sat up and accepted it gratefully.
Morgan asked, "Awake now?" When she nodded, he glanced back at Ryerson's seat. The only indication of the man was the wreath of cigarette smoke hanging in the air. Morgan turned back to Anna. "When Ryerson was talking to you, did he offer some kind of deal?"
"He said he wanted to tell my story to the world."
"I'll just bet he does," Morgan said.
"At least he seems to believe me," she said.
"Why not? I told you last night I believed you. I meant it." Morgan paused thoughtfully. "Did he ask about your photographs?"
"According to Maritime Command and the RCMP there are no photographs."
"You took some just before the crash, you said."

 
< previous page page_221 next page >