I must intrude myself on your hospitality. But better for you
perhaps if I stay here at present. I will put a few of my men in
your--your--buildings. Most of them shall go with their officers to
Tervueren for billet." (Turning to Mrs. Warren.) "Madam, you must
cheer up. I foresee your daughter and I will be great friends. Let
us now look through the rooms and see what disposition we can make.
I think I will have to take this room for my writing, for my work. I
see you have telephone here. _Gut_!"
Leaving Mrs. Warren still seated, but a little less stertorous in
breathing, a little reassured, Vivie and Oberst von Giesselin then
went over the Villa, apportioning the rooms. The Colonel and his
orderly would be lodged in two of the bedrooms. Vivie and her mother
would share Mrs. Warren's large bedroom and retain the salon for
their exclusive occupation. They would use the dining-room in common
with their guest.
Vivie looking out of the windows occasionally, as they passed from
room to room, saw the remainder of the soldiery strolling off to be
lodged at their nearest neighbour's, the farmer who had driven them
in to Brussels that morning. There were perhaps thirty, accompanying
a young lieutenant. How would he find room for them, poor man? They
were more fortunate in being asked only to lodge six or seven in
addition to the Colonel's orderly and soldier-clerk.
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