They hurried into the hallway. The smoke was now so thick that Robert could scarcely see the stairs. In her excitement Mrs. Vernon forgot all about her rheumatism. She clutched the young secretary tightly by the arm.
"Bend down and the smoke won't blind you so much," said Robert. "Lean on me if you are afraid of falling."
They passed downstairs as rapidly as the lady's condition permitted. In the lower hallway they again met Mrs. Barlow, along with several others, all carrying out furniture and other household effects.
Once outside, Robert conducted Mrs. Vernon to a place of safety, and set her down on a garden bench. She was still bewildered, but gradually her excitement left her.
The pair had hardly reached the bench when a piercing scream rang out, coming from the garret of the boarding house. At the small dormer window stood a young girl, waving her hands piteously for help.
"It is Norah Gump!" shouted somebody in the crowd. "What is she doing up there?"
"She went up for her bag of clothing," answered Mrs. Barlow. "She used to sleep in the garret."
Robert recognized the girl as one who had assisted the cook of the boarding house. He had heard her called Norah, but had never supposed that she was a sister to the bully of the village.
"She will be burnt up!" he cried, in horror.
"Oh, I trust not!" cried Mrs. Vernon. "See if you cannot aid her, Robert."