She waited then for her servants to come as usual for orders, before bidding her good night. Then, as they did not appear, she rang for them.
And when Pina entered, her mistress said:
“It is long past your bed time.”
“I know it, madam; but master, he gave us such a rowing for leaving you alone last night, after you had been frightened the night before, that Leo and me, we daren’t go. We’ll sit in the kitchen, if you please, ma’am, or wait in the hall, as you order, until the master returns.”
“He may not be able to get home to-night.”
“Then, please, ma’am, we’ll have to sit up and watch, or sleep anywhere in the house as you’ll appoint.”
Drusilla reflected for a moment, and then said:
“You may sit up in the kitchen for an hour longer, and then come to me for orders.”
The girl left the room, and her mistress sank back in her resting chair, repeating to herself,
“He knows that I am ill and nervous, and almost unprotected here; and he left me word he would be back early. Oh, surely he will keep his promise, in part, at least, by coming back some time to-night. He will if he can! I am sure he will, if he can!” she added, confidingly.