"Rather die!" murmured Helen.
At that moment there came a knock at the door. The servant appeared with a note in his hand.
"A special messenger, ma'am, on horseback, with a note from the baroness."
Helen seized the note hastily.
"From mamma!"
She cast a glance at it and trembled.
"What is it, Helen?"
"Mamma has just heard from Grenwitz, that brother has been taken very ill. She must go back immediately!"
"Poor girl!" said Sophie. "How pale and frightened you look! Shall I go with you?"
"No, no!" said Helen. "You stay! I must go alone. Good-by, dearest Sophie! Good-by!"