"I haven't the slightest intention of going any farther. Haven't you all had enough of this kind of traveling?"
The reply was affirmative and unanimous!
"The noise of the cannon is hardly audible this morning, which is a very encouraging sign, I'm sure, so we'll try to make ourselves comfortable until it's safe to go home."
And leaving Julie in charge, I set off by myself, glad of a moment's solitude.
In my wanderings I found the church door open, and entering, rejoiced in the peace that reigned within. It calmed my anxiety and as I withdrew my thoughts were clearer, and the burden of my responsibility seemed lightened.
On my way to the hotel I was accosted by a woman who, with a baby in her arms, was leading a cow behind her.
"Don't you want some milk?"
"I hardly think so."
"Please take it. You see, I've only saved my baby and my cow, and I have to milk the latter twice a day. I can't carry all she gives, so I keep what's necessary and throw the rest away. It seems like such a waste."
I agreed with her, and directed her towards the hotel court. She would take no remuneration and thanking me, hastened on her way.