There was also a rumor that later in the day, she walked fully clothed into the Amper River and said something very strange. Something about a kiss. Something about a Saumensch. How many times did she have to say goodbye?

Things always seem to glide away. They come to you, stay a moment, then leave again.

It's not so much that the old friend is a better friend. It's just that you know the person better, and you know they don't really care if you're acting like a poor, grovelling idiot. They know you would do the same for them.

Trust was accumulated quickly, due primarily to the brute strength of the man's gentleness, his thereness. (p.36)

One wild card was yet to be played.

Humans, if nothing else, have the good sense to die.

The pages and the words are my world, spread out before your eyes and for your hand to touch. Vaguely, I can see you face looking down into me, as I look back. Do you see my eyes?