Mrs. Bartlett led the way to a side room; and, sitting down here, Gilbert listened to what she had to tell concerning the second fire at the warehouse.
"I believe some Russian soldiers started it, possibly the fellows you warned away. It is a great loss; but, fortunately, we have a little insurance, if it can be collected. The fire was a great set-back for Mr. Bartlett; and, although he was getting better after you left, he is now as bad as he was before."
"Do you still wish to go to Taku?"
"I think not. The bombardment is over, and all is now as quiet as one would wish. I understand you have driven the Chinese out entirely."
"We have driven all the soldiers and Boxers out, and the others are as meek as lambs. But the looting goes on, in spite of what has been done to stop it."
"I presume you will now press on to Pekin."
"I don't believe we'll do anything for a week or so. We are awaiting the arrival of more troops, both from Manila and from the United States. And we need boats for the river and horses for the cavalry."
"And what is the news from Pekin?"
"All our people are shut up, and suffering a terrible bombardment. A mine was discovered under
