Gaspard was now more composed.
"Dear wife," said he, putting his arm fondly around her, "take courage; we must not despair. Amidst the dangers and horrors of war, God has always protected us. He will do so still. He will not forsake those who trust in Him."
The unhappy couple then seated themselves on one of the few seats left them, to consider what they could do to alleviate their present destitute condition, and to provide for the future; they had never before found themselves without a home, or the means of subsistence.
Gaspard was firmly resolved to seek the Count, and proposed that his eldest boy should accompany him, whilst Katherine, with the two other boys, might endeavour to obtain a temporary shelter with a sister of his, who, he believed, was settled at Ponnering, a town at no great distance from Feldsberg. Whilst considering this project, some one knocked at the door of the now desolate dwelling. On opening it, Dame Christine, a good and kind neighbour, for whom Katherine had done many kind services, entered.
"God of mercy!" she cried, as she cast a look of dismay around the half-dismantled room; "It is then true, and that bad man has done this cruel deed."
Katherine was unable to reply.
"Yes, good neighbour," said Gaspard, "it is indeed true; he has deprived us of everything,—we cannot remain here."
He then explained to Christine his project of seeking the Count, to inform him of the steward's harsh conduct towards himself, as well as the oppression complained of by all on the estate.
Dame Christine listened with much interest, and warmly approved of Gaspard's intention, saying it was time the Count should be made aware of the frequent acts of oppression and injustice committed in his name.
The good woman then insisted on Gaspard and his family taking shelter in her cottage, cordially offering to share all she had with them. She was sure they required, not only food, but rest, and would take no denial.