the Haven manner, he bowed in the traditional
form of Hashon parting. The Doctor rose and returned the gesture. "I
probably will not get to see you, North, again, until the operation. I
have a very busy schedule. But I try to speak at least once to my
patients. I never wish a patient luck, only a swift and complete
recovery."
77 "Thank you for your valuable time, Doctor," North answered. "'Til we
meet again."
78 North returned to his office. The shift of command was going
smoothly, but there were things Gray Mountain had to know that were not
kept in any records, other than North's own memory, and he had to be
informed of all these things.
79 A message came from The Lord God expressing his sorrow at the word
of North's illness, and his prayers for North's total recovery. Finally
everything was done. The evening before the operation Morn and his
family gathered at North's house. There was a quiet supper and
afterwards Morn and North sat on the balcony of his apartment,
listening to the songs of the birds that had built their nests on the
building's side.
80 "They asked me," mentioned North, "if I wanted them removed, but I
kind of enjoy their singing and sometimes they'll come right to my feet
to take bread crumbs. We've become quite good friends! Sometimes when
we take an afternoon flight, they follow along, I think to catch the
insects attracted to us. But whatever reason, they're good company."
81 North's tone suddenly turned serious. "I've made you the executor of
my estate. I am sure if anything goes wrong, you will take care of my
family. There is also some information my Second-In-Command will give
you, should I not survive or recover with my personality intact. It is information I feel will be important to you.
82 It is also important that he remain my military successor. He's more
than qualified. Besides you and me,