Paul grew red, and embarrassment checked his speech for a moment.
"It was just luck, of course," he said, confusedly. "Anyone could have done what we did, you know. But I'm glad you'll go on to Brussels, Aunt Claire, and I think Major du Chaillu will be glad to make the arrangements, before the railway is interrupted. I will go now and get out the carriages."
"Very well, Paul, do so. It is lucky that we have those left, at any rate."
Paul and Arthur helped the men to get out the carriages and harness the horses, frightened by the noise and confusion of the fire. And Paul and Arthur, too, rode in the carriage that took their aunt and her maid into Liege.
"I didn't think we would be coming back to Liege quite so soon," said Arthur, a little ruefully. "This isn't as exciting as the first trip we made to-night, either."
"No, but I think it's safer," said Paul, rather dryly. "And there'll be more than enough excitement to make up for it when the Germans come, Arthur."
"Oh, I suppose so!"
"I am going to take you two boys to Brussels with me," said Madame de Frenard, suddenly.
Paul was quiet at that; it was Arthur who cried out in vigorous protest.
"Oh, no, Aunt Claire!" he exclaimed. "There's so much for us to do here!"