Susan walked away.
"Now then, Maud, buck up and be cheerful once again. We will account for Star's absence, and you and I will have a jolly time."
CHAPTER XXXI MIDNIGHT AT THE GREENGROCER'S
The rest of the day passed quietly. Miss Peacock, contrary to her usual custom, appeared at late supper that evening. She took the head of the longest table, and looked from one girl to another. She noticed that some were missing, amongst them Susan Marsh, Maud Thompson, and Star Lestrange. She was not surprised at the absence of the first two, but the absence of the younger girl caused her heart to sink even lower than it already was in her breast.
The meal proceeded and came to an end; prayers followed, and then the greater number of the girls dispersed for the night.
It was about an hour later when Miss Peacock, accompanied by Jessie Jones, went upstairs. They entered the White Corridor very softly. The door of Christian's room was a little ajar, and Miss Peacock was afraid of waking her. By and by she came to the foot of the stairs. All was quiet.
"I am sure they are not there to-night. I am sure we needn't go any farther," whispered Jessie.
"I think we will go upstairs to make all safe," was Miss Peacock's answer.