"I shall have no more washing done than if I had fewer things," Rotha said.
"Then there is no sort of use in lugging all these loads of linen up there just to bring them back again. The trunk will not hold them. Here, Rotha—take back these,—and these, and these—"
Rotha received them silently; silently carried them up stairs and came down for more. She was in a kind of despair. Her Bible and most precious belongings she had put carefully in her travelling bag, rejoicing in its beauty and security.
"Mamma," said Antoinette now, "does Rotha know when she is going?"
"I do not know."
"Well, that's funny. I should think you would tell her. Why it's almost time for her to put on her bonnet."
Rotha's eyes went from one to the other. She was startled.
"I am going to send you off by the night train to Tanfield,"—Mrs. Busby said without looking up from the trunk.
"The night train!" exclaimed Rotha.
"It is the best you can do. It brings you there by daylight. The night train is as pleasant as any."