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Farid took the piece of paper and looked at it ‘What does it say?’ he asked

Elinor took the note from his hand ‘Heavens above, Mortiie and I have often sent secret– she’s nise it? It comes from a book We’re not far away, it says Don’t worry We’ll soon get you out Mo, Elinor and Farid Meggie will be able to read the iving Farid the note back ‘Yes, if it falls into the wrong hands it’s better that way After all, perhaps some of those fire-raisers can read’

Farid folded the note until it was about the size of a coin, then put it in his trouser pocket ‘I’ll be back when the sun is above those hills at the latest,’ he said ‘Or if I’m not--’

‘If you’re not, I’ll coue ended the sentence

‘And so will I, of course,’ added Elinor, looking fierce

Farid did not think that was a good idea, but he didn’t say so He left, going the sa as if the ghosts who lurked in the darkness had eaten him alive

42

A Furry Face on the Windowsill

It’s a poor sort of h the Looking Glass

Flatnose brought Meggie and Fenoglio their breakfast, and thisit was more than bread and a few olives He put a basket of fruit on the table for theie didn’t at all like the smile he served up at the sa her cheek with his cluthen your little voice There’s been a lot of excitement since Basta told us about the execution Well, like I always said, there has to becats’

Meggie exchanged a glance with Fenoglio The old ust which suggested that he couldn’t believe such a creature had slipped fro time since we had a nice execution!’ continued Flatnose, on his way back to the door ‘It’d attract too much attention, they always said And when soo carefully! Make it look like an accident Is that any fun? You bet it isn’t Not like it used to be, a good execution with eating and drinking and dancing and music, that’s the way to do it in style! And so ill this tiood old days!’

Fenoglio took a sip of the black coffee that Flatnose had brought hirandpa?’ Flatnose looked at hily ‘Taketo relio unhappily