"Nor will she!" said Madame Ribot, weary and irritated. She had not risen before nine for many years and loathed travelling even in a first-class compartment alone, to say nothing of the present disgustingly crowded conditions. "Her walking to the station was a ruse. She is going to remain at Mervaux to look after our things."
"Alone, with the Germans coming?" Phil demanded. He also showed signs of irritation to match hers.
"She begged to," Madame Ribot explained. "Some one ought to stay, and she said it would give her subjects for her drawings."
"A fine courage, but——"
Already the station master was ringing his bell. Phil dragged his bag from under the seat and sprang out onto the platform.
"I'll bring her by the next train!" he called.
"There will be no next train!" put in the Count.
"At any rate, she must not be left alone to receive the German army!"
"Perhaps she doesn't want you!" put in Henriette, rising and leaning out of the window in protest. "I wouldn't. It's Helen's own idea and I know Helen. Come to Paris with us!"
"No, I'm going to Mervaux to see the Germans!" Phil replied promptly.