" Don’t take any risks over there,” he said. “Do your best, do your duty, and we’ll see you when it’s over.” I kissed them all, a quick beak-to-cheek, and John reached in, speaking low as ever. “You’re a fine, odd creature, Cher Ami,” he said. “That’s why I’ve always loved you.” He brought me close to his mouth, and his soft, soothing voice dropped to a whisper, as if to confide something he didn’t want even the other birds to hear. “Save my son,” he said. My heart beat hard against his clasping hand. I’d be a liar if I said that I wasn’t excited. "

― Kathleen Rooney , Cher Ami and Major Whittlesey