E.C Tubb: Eloise

"Small worlds," she said. "Places where a man with the gift of music and the touch of song could make his way. Teaching, entertaining, making instruments for sale."

"And, where too, a dancer could teach her art," he pointed out. "As I said, Eloise, we have much in common. True I am old and have little to offer, but what I have is yours. Money for passage, enough left over to buy a modest place."

She said, "There's Earl."

He came towards them, touching their hands, the gesture of farewell.

Eloise said, quickly, "You're leaving, Earl. Let us come with you. To the next world at least."

"No."

"Me, then. Please!"

"To be left among strangers?" Dumarest glanced at the minstrel. "Here you have a friend."

"Earl!"

"Goodbye, Eloise."

Arbush took her arm as Dumarest walked to where the ships were waiting, turning her away, leading her towards the edge of the field.

"It's over," he said gently. "Earl has gone to find his dream. You can't go with him. No one can. It is something he must do alone."