He was looking out of the window. Anthony followed his gaze, but the cold grey square was empty save for a couple of cabs that stood there on the rank.
"But what could happen?" persisted Anthony.
"Oh, nothing," Edward answered. "It's only another way of saying 'Deo volente.' It used to be added to all public proclamations once upon a time. We're not as pious as we were." He took up his hat and stick and held out his hand. "Don't forget about the books," he said. "They're expensive to buy, and I've done with most of them."
Anthony thanked him and they shook hands. They never met again.
