True, the streets were very badly lit at night and fuel was scarce and dear.

But you were in contact with people.
In January, Vivie tried to get into touch with the American Legation, not only to send news of their condition to England but to ascertain whether permission might not be obtained for them to leave Belgium for Holland.

But this last plea was said by the American representative to be unsustainable.

For various reasons, the German Government would not permit it, and he was afraid neither Vivie nor her mother would get enough backing from the British authorities to strengthen the American demand.

She must stop on in Brussels till the War came to an end.
"But how are we to live ?" asked Vivie, with a catch in her throat.
"Our supply of Belgian money is coming to an end.