No one approached their hiding-place.

At four o'clock the general gave orders that his horse and escort should be at the door, and a few minutes afterwards he went out, and the room was left deserted.

The midshipmen were now able to stand in easier positions, but they did not venture to leave their hiding-places, in case any one should suddenly return.

The hours passed slowly on, and it was nine o'clock before the door opened.

It closed again, and a voice asked in low tones whether they were still there.
The lads joyfully replied that they were.
"Follow me, then," she said, "as quietly as you can.