Tommy nodded.

“There’s a big cupboard in the shadow of the landing. Stand behind it. Take the end of this string in your hand. When I’ve let the others out⁠— pull! ”

Before he had time to ask her anything more, she had flitted lightly down the ladder and was in the midst of the group with a loud cry:

“ Mon Dieu! Mon Dieu! Qu’est-ce qu’il y a? ”

The German turned on her with an oath.

“Get out of this. Go to your room!”

Very cautiously Tommy swung himself down the back of the ladder. So long as they did not turn round⁠ ⁠… all was well. He crouched behind the cupboard. They were still between him and the stairs.