The Kingdom of the Blind

An espionage novel set during World War I. "You think I'm brutal, dear," Conyers went on, as he patted her hand. "Remember, I've seen men killed-that's what makes the difference, Olive. Yes, I am different! We are all different, we who've tackled the job. Thomson's different. Your young man at luncheon, Geraldine-what's his name? -Granet- he's different. There's something big and serious grown up inside us, and the brute is looking out. It has to be. I'll come in later, Olive. Tell the mater I shall be home to dinner, Geraldine. The governor's waiting down at the Admiralty for me. Good-bye, girls!"