Today has been a tragedy. Why do we have no rest? At every point in this mission, we have met obstacle after obstacle. What is this trying to teach all of us?

  I was treating William when he woke up. He did not look any better than what he had yesterday. I was trying so hard to treat him right.

  He woke and muttered, "Can I see Angelo?"

  We are in such a small tent that Angelo immediately heard him and came over, "What do you need, William?"

  He flashed a smug smile, "You know what I told you about the States?"

  Angelo nodded, "How nice they were, despite everything that was going around. I know what you said. Even about the bad parts."

  "I've been looking at all of you folks and all of these other countries. I decided that if it's the last thing I do, I need to give you a word of advice. Italy doesn't look so good. Neither do any of the European empires or countries in my opinion, but it's just my opinion. You need to move far away after this. You need to move to the States. I have nice things there. You could use them, if you survive. You're going to, for me. For my unlived life. Right?" William muttered, a cough escaping him.

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  "You aren't going to die, William," Angelo affirmed.

  But he shook his head, "Yes. I am. Move to the States. Live a good life. You were always my favorite. Can I see my countryman?"

  Lawrence was there in a second, "What do you need, William?"

  William's smile went from smug to somber, "Pleasure to serve with you, Private King."

  "Private King... hadn't heard that in forever," Lawrence told him.

  "Don't lose your spark. Your patriotism. You have to be the American now, yeah? For me. For Henry. You hear?" William said.

  "Of course," Lawrence promised.

  William closed his eyes, "For me? I'm going someplace better. I'll be waiting for you. You better not join me soon though. Until then, goodbye. Fifteen years isn't a long time to live, but I've lived more than most people. Goodbye, my brothers. It was a pleasure serving with you."

  We never heard from William again.