At present you are not needed here." The English Lieutenant saluted his commander, bowed respectfully to Alice and said: "Come with me, Miss, please." Helm and Beverley exchanged a look of helpless and enquiring rage.

It was as if they had said: "What can we do?
Must we bear it ?" Certainly they could do nothing.

Any interference on their part would be sure to increase Alice's danger, and at the same time add to the weight of their own humiliation.
Alice silently followed the officer out of the room.

She did not even glance toward Beverley, who moved as if to interfere and was promptly motioned back by the guard.

His better judgement returning held him from a rash and futile act, until Hamilton spoke again, saying loudly as Alice passed through the door: "I'll see who's master of this town if I have to shoot every French hoyden in it!" "Women and children may well fear you, Colonel Hamilton," said Beverley.