CHAPTER XXI
IN THE GREAT RAILWAY STATION
“There, dear, you are better. Drink this.”
Margot opened her eyes in the big waiting-room for women at the great station. A kind-faced woman in a white cap and apron was bending over her and holding a cup of bouillon to her lips, which obediently opened and received the draught with grateful refreshment.
“Thank you. That is good. Where am I? Who are you?”
The attendant explained: and added, with intent to comfort:
“You are all right. You will be cared for. It was the long going without food and the sudden confusion of arrival. The Indian says you have not eaten in a long time. He is here, I could not keep him out. Is—is he safe?”
The hot, strong soup, and the comforting presence restored the girl so far that she could laugh.
“Joe safe? Our own dear old Joseph Wills? Why, madam, he is the very best guide in all the state of Maine. Aren’t you, Joe? And my uncle’s most trusted friend. Else he would not be here with me. What happened to me that things got so queer?”