the robes of his offices. Then once more he appeared before the
altar, and led the kneeling congregation in the litany.

"From war and pestilence and sudden death, Good Lord, deliver
us," he prayed at last, and all the people responded with a
fervent "Amen."

That night, when she put her children to bed, Mother Van Hove
fastened a chain with a locket upon it about Marie's neck.
"Listen, ma Mie," she said, "and you, too, my little Jan. God
only knows what may be before us. This locket contains my
picture. You must wear it always about your neck, and remember
that your mother's name is Leonie Van Hove, and your father's
name is Georges Van Hove. If by any chance--which God forbid--we
should become separated from one another, keep the locket on your
neck, and our names in your memory until we meet again; for if
such a thing should happen, do not doubt that I should find you,
though I had to swim the sea to do it! For you, my Jan, I have no
locket, but you are a man, a brave man, now! You must take care
of yourself and your sister, too, if need should arise, and above
all, remember this--only the brave are safe. Whatever happens,
you must remember that you are Belgians, and be brave!"

The children clung to her, weeping, as she finished. "There,
there," she said soothingly: "I had to tell you this so you would
be ready to do your best and not despair, whatever might happen,
but be sure, my lambs, nothing shall harm you if I can help it,
and nothing shall separate us from one another if God so wills.
Now, go to sleep!"