No other days of romance or chivalry ever gave more of effort, courage, and the sacrifice of all the human heart holds dear than those days when America’s heart was in France, and her eyes following a map with the advance of American forces.
Greycliff days went on as usual in the class-room, though war was declared and the reading of the morning paper became one of the exciting moments of the day. “When would the boys go?” was the question of chief importance. Some time after the Glee Club concert, Betty received a telephone message from Donald Hilton, asking if he could see her in the afternoon after classes, or in the evening before study hour. “It is very important,” said he. “Will Miss Randolph permit me to call?”
“I’ll find out, Donald, and let you know. I think she will.”
Later Betty telephoned that Donald might come between dinner and study hours, and at the appointed time he arrived, having cut short his own meal to get to Greycliff in time, and being excused properly at the academy. He met Betty in the hall, and they stood talking there, while Alma took his card to Miss Randolph and returned with it for Betty.
Donald was full of repressed excitement. “I had to come to see you, Betty—before I take French leave of the school—in more senses than one!”
“What!” exclaimed Betty. “You’re going to enlist now!”
“Yes,” replied Donald, “I’m going.”
“Do you mean without telling your folks?”
“Yes, without telling anybody but you.”
Betty was touched by his confidence, but said earnestly, “Donald, don’t you do it! Go home first and see your father and mother and sisters. You will regret it if you don’t.”