Food is so dear in France, it makes little difference whether we stay at 'ome or not for meals." They were now close to the chocolate-coloured door of the Chalet, and Madame Wachner, to Sylvia Bailey's surprise and amusement, lifted a corner of the shabby outside mat, and took from under it a key.

With it she opened the door.

"Walk in," she said familiarly, "and welcome, Madame, to my 'ome!" Sylvia found herself in a bare little hall, so bare indeed that there was not even a hat and umbrella stand there.
Her hostess walked past her and opened a door which gave into a darkened room.
"This is our dining-room," she said proudly.

"Walk in, Madame.

It is 'ere we had better 'ave tea, perhaps." Sylvia followed her.