Presently this came, and they were not at all surprised to find that the old couple were deeply religious, and asked a grace before partaking of the meal. Even the worried look forsook the face of the good wife when the two uninvited guests chatted pleasantly, and told of many interesting things in connection with America, the wonder land to most peasants in the Old World, and of which they can never hear quite enough.
So the meal was ended, and the boys again resumed their seats by the window. It had grown dark by now, with the rain still coming down, though fitfully.
“I really believe it may let up before long, don’t you, Jack?” Amos ventured to say, as they sat there, watching the two belonging to the cottage busying themselves with various duties, and every once in a while get their heads close together to exchange confidences, as though some weighty secret lay between them.
“The signs point that way,” replied Jack, who was always watching out for a change in the wind, or anything else that might indicate possible weather conditions in the near future.
“I certainly hope we have a decent day tomorrow,” said Amos. “To think of all those poor fellows lying wounded and uncared for on the battlefield, how they will suffer tonight in this cold rain. It makes me feel sick just to remember it. No matter whether they are British, Belgians, French or Germans, they are our fellow human beings, and have been our friends.”
The old man did not come over to them for some little time. Jack fancied that he was getting nervous again, for several times he half started from his seat and looked quickly toward the door.
Sitting there for a while, the boys found that they were getting very sleepy. Jack purposely yawned several times when he thought the owner of the cottage was looking their way. If this was intended as a gentle hint it finally met with its reward, for the man came towards them.
“Young messieurs,” he said, awkwardly, “if you are tired and would lie down I will show you the best we can do for you. It is not much, but you will understand that no one can be expected to do more in these terrible times.”
“Please don’t say that again,” Amos burst out with in his impetuous fashion. “You are doing us a great favor as it is in giving us shelter from the rain, and something to eat. We feel grateful. I could sleep on a board and be thankful for the privilege.”
The man took a candle and started up the steep stairs that seemed almost like a ladder, with the two lads following after. They found themselves in what appeared to be an unfinished loft. The rain could be heard beating softly on the roof. On the bare floor was a thick feather mattress, and some bedclothes, as well as two pillows.