The day passed and they did not seek to stir from the room. Madame Crocheville brought them food, but talked little. Time was very heavy. John did not dare to go much to the window, for fear of being seen. The night at last came again, and to their great joy it was dark without either moon or stars.
"Now we'll go," said Lannes.
"I'm ready," said John, although he did not have the remotest idea how they were going.
CHAPTER IV
THE THRILLING ESCAPE
Madame Crocheville brought them supper, and they ate with strong appetites. John was all courage and anticipation. He was chafing over his compulsory day and night in one room, despite its comfort and safety, and he was ready for any risk. He wanted to reach his uncle and Mr. Anson, knowing how great must be their anxiety. Lannes was as eager to be away, for other reasons.
"Don't make the risks too great," said Madame Crocheville, as she paused with the tray of empty dishes.
"We will not," replied Lannes earnestly. "It is not a time for folly."
He went out with Madame, leaving John alone in the room, but he returned in two or three minutes, and thrust an automatic pistol in the young American's hand.