«Are you a patriot?»
The girl blushed. «I suppose you have no right to ask me such a thing! Of course I am!»
«Don’t be offended. If you knew what’s at stake, you wouldn’t feel that way. But I am obliged to trust someone, and that someone must be a woman.» «Why?»
«Because women and children come first.» He looked around and lowered his voice. «I have documents on me – vital documents. They can change the Allies’ position in the war. Do you understand? These documents must be saved! They have a better chance in your hands than in mine. Will you take them?»
The girl reached out her hand. «Wait – I must warn you. It could be dangerous if, by any chance, I have been followed. I don’t believe so, but then again, who knows. If it has happened, it’s dangerous. Do you have the guts to take the risk?»
The girl smiled. «I will manage just fine. I’m proud you chose me! What should I do next?»
«Read the newspaper. I will place an ad in the Personal column of the Times titled ‘Travel Companion.’ If three days pass without anything, you will know that I sank and disappeared. Then take the package to the American embassy and hand it over to the Ambassador himself. Am I clear?»
«Absolutely clear.» «So get ready, I will say goodbye to you.» He took her hands in his. «Farewell. Good luck,» he said a little louder.