There was an uncomfortable pause, broken by a coughing fit from Fanny, which he suppressed only with the mightiest of efforts.
“Well, chaps,” the padre said at last, “you know what to do, don’t you. We’re all counting on you. I’m sure you’ll be just fine.”
Del realised that the padre was waiting for an answer, so he thanked him.
“God speed, and God bless,” the padre said, departing.
“Poor bugger,” Gord said.
“Never had a chance,” Fanny added.
“Let’s get going,” Del said, pulling the side door open.
Del always got in first; it was another of their collective superstitions. Del had entered first on their first trip, so he got in first every trip. It was awkward, as he could not even strap himself in until Fanny and Gord made their way in, but it seemed as necessary as everything else.
