Donald Hamilton: The Ambushers

"I know," I said. "And I'll probably regret this, but there's been enough killing. I have permission to do it this way."

She said, "We have our lists, too. There is a man on several of them. A tall man responsible for the death of one Martell. For the death of one Caselius. For the death of one Tina, and others. And now for the death of Max. There are many black marks against you over there, Eric, also known as Matthew Helm."

I grinned. "It wasn't entirely admiration that drew you here, then?'

"No. After making my report, I received new instructions a few days ago."

I said, "Sure. I wasn't certain I'd wake up this morning. But I guess you've got a little sentimentality, too. Enough not to spoil a pleasant reunion between two old comrades in arms. I was kind of gambling on that."

She looked at me for a moment longer with an expression I couldn't read. Then she laughed and turned to dress. At the airport we stopped at the gate. I put into her hand the little travel case she'd brought to my room.

"Goodbye, Eric," she said. "Under the circumstances, I hope we never meet again. At least… I think I do."

As I watched her walk out to the waiting plane, I wasn't quite sure how I felt about it, either.