Woman in the Attic Window — Luther Butler

Her head had appeared at the houses top story attic for ten years or more since the killing time when her son went off to World War II.

Who are you? the lieutenant asked kindly.

I do not know. The natives say they rescued me from a plane many monsoons ago.

My God, Lieutenant, it is a white man, Tamery said when the speaker came into a dim light.

Yes. I am not like the natives.

Will you come on out of that dark hole so I can see you better? I am Lieutenant Jim Moreland. And you have no idea who you are, and where you came from? the lieutenant asked.

No sir.

You are not pulling my leg, sir?

No. I do not know how I knew, but I knew.

Your name? the lieutenant asked.

My people call me, Ratu.

Chief, uh?

Yes. I am their Chief only because they have chosen me to be.

Admiral Whaite, I appreciate you taking your time to come over here and try to identify this man who calls himself, Ratu. Did you get a good enough look at him this morning to identify him?

Yes, Captain Nelson. At last a ghost comes back to haunt me. So many years. Ive thought so many times about those we lost at sea that day. So many young men wasted. His name is