In February last year, he went to Amoy in Fukien Province on business. Amoy lies opposite Kinmen. One February day he swam to Kinmen and reached freedom. He has since worked for the General Political Warfare Department of the Ministry of National Defense.

The hall was brilliantly lit, pernicketily tidy, the hall of a childless couple. No voice greeted me. I went quickly inside the drawing-room. Here also the lights attacked me, as in the dazzle I saw my wife. Saw her quiet, composed, preoccupied.

With what different feelings did he now put foot in stirrup to the last time when he sprung to horse?

Give me the boy, now, and no more of your jaw. I am going to take the boy home with me.