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"Clouds descend. Cold blasts assail my body. The hour is so late. The shadows are gathering, I can no longer think... I'm tired, tired, tired..."

  • * *

While Anna was waiting, Eric was caught fast in the merciless claws of his patriotic activities. The moment he stepped over the threshold of the German Club, all exits were closed fast behind him. The entire throng of members and friends had already gathered. A waiter, sleeves rolled up to the elbows was hurrying among the crowded tables, serving beer and lemonade. Eric pushed through the room, he had decided to put in a brief appearance for formality's sake. Early in the morning the tall Heinz showed up to remind him that this gathering would be especially important. A new executive board was to be named, besides, another matter was to be discussed which for the moment would have to be kept secret. "It's perfectly right to be in love," Heinz had said, "but loyalty to the Reich is our first duty."

As soon as Eric arrived the meeting opened. In a brief speech Fritz thanked those present for their attendance-and at once put forward Eric's name as the logical choice for president. Someone shouted "Bravo," and a storm of applause drowned out Fritz's further remarks.

"Sieg Heil!" hoarse voices roared.

"Long live our new president!" came Elsa's voice in an almost hysterical shriek.

Someone started to sing "Deutschland über Alles" and the others joined in, while Eric, stunned, remained in the air supported by strong arms. When at last he was lowered to the floor the Club's new president could hardly keep his balance. His head spun from the rocking motion he had

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