*And still, Meg's eyes are fixed on River; and don't look likely to shift, as she waits for a response.

When it doesn't come, she speaks again, and all efforts at casualness, at conversation, are gone.*

You took a responsibility, when you stepped up, that day. You know that.

We've had different ideas maybe of what that is, and you hadn't always listened to me, and maybe if you had she wouldn't be there now, but that's not the point.

Point is, you're capable. more capable than - than anyone else, maybe - and you're responsible, too.

I believed that - and I guess I still do.

So when you go -

*If I let you go, is not said, but heard; nevermind whether or not Meg has any power to give permission -*

- you've got no excuse for not bringing her back.