“Ladislas, you and Mr. Anstruther will stay to see Volna, won’t you?” asked the old lady, who was much less distressed than I had anticipated. “She will be so troubled; and she thinks so much of your advice, Mr. Anstruther. You will stay?”
“Certainly at your wish,” I agreed.
“I don’t see that this gentleman can do any good,” murmured the sister.
“We will both stay, if possible—but one of us certainly,” said Ladislas.
“Tell her you don’t think this is a serious thing; it can’t be really; and I daresay I shall be back again almost before she is home.”
“I will tell her,” replied my friend.
She kissed Paul and Katinka—both of whom were as unmoved as though she had been going for an afternoon drive—and then shook hands with us. “Volna will rely on you, I know, Mr. Anstruther. Now, sir, I am ready. Be sure and make Volna understand I am not in the least frightened, Ladislas.”
That was her last word spoken with a brave smile as she drove away.
As soon as we re-entered the house Katinka opened fire at me. “I think we can do what has to be done alone, Paul.”
“Madame Drakona asked us to remain, Katinka,” said Ladislas.