His splendid health and vigorous mentality were the results of thinking young.

But now he heard the avalanche stirring, the whispering slither of the first pebbles.

He would grow old swiftly, thunderously.

Kitty's youth would shore up the debacle, suspend it indefinitely.

Marry her, cheat her, and stay young.
Green stones, accursed.
Kitty's days were pleasant enough, but her nights were sieges.