"For if I'm not back home before four o'clock, folks may suspect and hunt me up, and maybe find you into the bargain," she said to the little girls, and so she left them to themselves.
Yes, at last they were alone. Mrs. Carter had gone out; they heard her heavy tramp as she went downstairs. She was the only other lodger on this floor, and the place was now comparatively quiet.
"If only we could lock the door," said Rosy. "But there, we can't."
"Shall you sleep at all to-night, Rosy? Aren't you terrified?" said Christian.
"It's just this," said Rosy: "I mustn't let out; I must pretend I'm not the least bit frightened."
"I don't suppose you are. You are wonderfully brave."
"Now then, let us settle down and let us plan," said Rose.
They sat close to each other and kept up the fire, and they had no idea of saving their small amount of coal. What did it matter when they meant to go away on the morrow?
Presently day faded. They had forgotten to supply themselves with candles. Rose did not dare to go out. Christian clung to her.
"We'll keep up the fire all night," said Rose. "You'd like another cup of tea, wouldn't you, darling Miss Christian?"