The shelling had stopped when Helen and Phil reached the street again. Soon faces began to appear in the doorways and the village came to life.
"It reminds me of prairie dogs ducking for their burrows," said Phil. "I ought to explain that——"
"Oh, I know what prairie dogs are," replied Helen. "But, seriously, there is a question I want to ask." She was smiling faintly, but her eyes had a defiant spark. "Are you going to follow me wherever I go?"
"Yes, if you are in danger."
"Is that fair?" she demanded.
"It's cousinly," he replied.
"But what if Henriette and I go in different directions?" she continued methodically.
"In that case, I see that you prefer that I go with Henriette. I—I think you know better how to take care of yourself."
She flushed and looked down. It had not occurred to her whither the questions were leading.
"Yes, of course," she said.