As he recalled all this, the expression of his face was like that of a child who’d lost his way, a look that filled Ies with pity. Had he said nothing for a few minutes longer Ies might have changed her mind but, instead, Suryono pressed on, trying to strengthen his case by making use of what Ies had said about him.
“What you’re saying is true,” he told her. “For some time I’ve been bewildered as to where I belong in the struggle our people are waging. Sometimes I hear calling the bells of independence in 1945, but then I’m filled with disgust at the doings of those who claim to be our fighters and I am seized by indifference. I need you to help me find myself again.”
The last phrase struck Ies as empty, and strengthened her resolve to refuse Suryono. “Really, Yono, it’s no use.”
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