Deep Damnation

Peter sprang to his feet and rushed towards the open French window. Taken unawares by this burst of energy from a patient who had been catatonic for days, the orderly started after him, but too late. Shouting "No! I didn't do it. It was an accident!" Peter ran out through the window and fell over the balcony rail.

The orderly looked over the rail, then returned to the room and went to the telephone.

Duncan asked him, "Is he all right?"

The orderly replied, "Sixty feet onto tarmac? I don't think so."

As Duncan left the ward, two nurses were hurrying towards it in the peculiar gait of those who wish to move as quickly as possible but have been forbidden to run. Peggy rose from the chair and looked at him enquiringly. He smiled and nodded. Peggy returned his smile, and they walked off down the corridor hand in hand.

* * *

THE END