The strain had of late been so great, that the news that the crisis was at hand was almost welcome.

He did not stay long anywhere, but, after setting the alternative before them, left husband and wife to discuss whether to try to make down to Allahabad or to take refuge in the fort.
Soon after nine o'clock all were at Major Hannay's.

There were pale faces among them, but no stranger would have supposed that the whole party had just received news which was virtually a death warrant.

The ladies talked together as usual, while the men moved in and out of the room, sometimes talking with the Major, sometimes sitting down for a few minutes in the veranda outside, or talking there in low tones together.
The Major moved about among them, and soon learned that all had resolved to stay and meet together whatever came, preferring that to the hardships and unknown dangers of flight.
"I am glad you have all decided so," he said quietly.

"In the state the country is, the chances of getting to Allahabad are next to nothing.
Here we may hold out till Lawrence restores order at Lucknow, and then he may be able to send a party to bring us in.