As for me, I did not sleep a moment. I could not forget the poor fellows lying dead out there in the starlight--and it was such a beautiful night. XIV September 8, 1914. It was about my usual time, four o'clock, the next morning,--Sunday, September 6,--that I opened my blinds. Another lovely day. I was dressed and downstairs when, a little before five, the battle recommenced. I rushed out on the lawn and looked off. It had moved east--behind the hill between me and Meaux. All I could see was the smoke which hung over it. Still it seemed nearer than it had the day before. I had just about room enough in my mind for one idea--"The Germans wish to cross the Marne at Meaux, on the direct route into Paris. They are getting there. In that case to-day will settle our fate. If they reach the Marne, that battery at Coutevroult will come into action,"--that was what Captain Edwards had said,--"and I shall be in a direct line between the two armies." Amelie got breakfast as if there were no cannon, so I took my coffee, and said nothing. As soon as it was cleared away, I went up into the attic, and quietly packed a tiny square hat-trunk. I was thankful that this year's clothes take up so little room. I put in changes of underwear, stockings, slippers, an extra pair of low-heeled shoes, plenty of handkerchiefs,--just the essentials in the way of toilette stuff,--a few bandages and such emergency things, and had room for two dresses. When it was packed and locked, it was so light that I could easily carry it by its handle on top. I put my long black military cape, which I could carry over my shoulder, on it, with hat and veil and gloves. Then I went down stairs and shortened the skirt of my best walking-suit, an/d hung it and its jacket handy. I was ready to fly,--if I had to,--and in case of that emergency nothing to do for myself.