"Marie," she asked, "is it quite safe to leave you here alone until afternoon?"
"Safe? Why not?"
"I was going out to the bungalow."
The old servant looked up shrewdly.
"Is anything the matter?"
"Nothing that you can help," the girl answered.
She had not yet told her of Ben's last disappearance. There was no use in worrying those who could give no help.
"Bien. Go on. It will do you both good."
"The telephone is at your bed—you can summon Dr. Abbot if you need anything."
"Bien."