“You don’t want Pom’s message then. You don’t look interested,” said Victor.
“Oh, I do want it, but of course I am more interested in what my father has to say. What is Pom’s message?”
“He says to tell you that when those shoes are worn out he will send you another pair if he has to rob a Boche to get them.”
“What nonsense! How is the dear little fellow, and why didn’t you bring him with you?”
“I was afraid he wouldn’t want to go back, and I’d hate to have him shot as a deserter. The boys are all devoted to him. My friend Honoré has him in charge while I am on leave.”
“Oh, yes, Honoré. Shall you see his family this time?”
“Happy thought! Why not all of us go out there for another good meal. It will please them to see us and to hear from the lad, and then you would like to make your adieux, wouldn’t you?”
“If I could but tell where we were going. Paulette—”
But Victor interrupted any information by crying out: “Don’t tell her, Paulette. Don’t tell. It is a secret.”
Lucie gave her head, an indignant toss. “I think you are too horrid for words,” she cried. “I shall not stay any longer. I will go to Odette, and you two can keep your old secrets.” She flounced out of the room, leaving Victor and Paulette laughing and whispering together.