With an exclamation of surprise she made a little rush forward, trying to take hold of Madame Bonnèt’s hand.
But in her hand and pressed close against her Nona discovered that she held something warm and soft, which fluttered and made gentle noises.
“Why, Madame Bonnèt, is there anything the matter? Are either you or Berthe ill? Won’t you come in and let me find Eugenia?”
Madame Bonnèt shook her head.
“No, my dear, my errand is to you and it is rather a surprising one.”
She held out the carrier pigeon, which she had been holding in her hand.
“Do you remember one day you asked me to name one of my carrier pigeons for you and tied a little coin about its throat so we could know it? Well, I gave that particular pigeon to Captain Martin by his request, when he went away. And tonight, dear, the pigeon came winging back home. Berthe and I found her just reaching the dove cote, after twilight, and bearing this letter addressed to you. We brought it to you at once. Of course the message may be only a personal one, but then none of us know where the American soldiers have gone or what may have happened to them and the word may bring news of importance. I confess I am frightened.”
And Madame Bonnèt paused, a little out of breath from nervousness and her rapid walk.
Nona’s own hands shook as she opened the letter brought her by so strange and gentle a messenger from an unknown place.
She had a flashlight, which she always carried, so that she could read it quickly.