“Nobody hurt,” announced Victor cheerfully, “and we have not so very far to go. I think we can manage it. Come, Paulette, let us have those baskets. We can strap them on Long Ears pannier-wise, and we can make a pillion of the contents of those bundles, or at least of part. We can lay those on his back first and the straps which we can make of the reins will hold them on.”
Paulette was quite used to a peasant manner of traveling, and lent a hand skillfully, refusing absolutely to be the first to ride, so to Lucie was given this honor.
Leaving the cart abandoned by the roadside they set off again, Lucie sitting easily upon her improvised saddle and rather enjoying the novelty. Victor walked by her side, declaring that one could not tell what tricks a donkey might suddenly develop and it was well that one should be on hand. At last Lucie declared that it was Paulette’s turn to ride, and though at first she protested violently, the old woman finally was persuaded that Lucie would be made uncomfortable if she continued to refuse, so she mounted Long Ears and in this way the little company at last arrived at their destination.
“Now,” said Victor, “the first thing is to discover Mons. Du Bois. If he be here I can leave you in safety.”
“And if he is not here?” said Lucie with some trepidation.
Victor looked troubled. “I am afraid I shall have to leave you in any case,” he answered slowly.
“O, Victor,” cried Lucie, “how can we get along without you?”
“Do you want him to be shot as a deserter?” asked Paulette severely. “He must get back to his regiment, and he has none too much time as it is.”
“Oh!” Lucie looked distressed. “I did not think, but—” She looked questioningly at Paulette.
“Do not distress yourself, my child,” returned Paulette imperturbably. “We shall get on. Monsieur, I beg that you will not embarrass yourself further. We are not the only women who must travel alone, and I have not a fear.”