Chapter 3
The next morning, Lotte got up before everyone else and slipped into the pantry, where she took a few crusts of bread, some cheese, and a chunk of sausage. Hiding everything in her pinafore, she passed by the vegetable garden, picking a few things here and there, adding them to the other provisions. Then she slipped into the barn.
Nobody showed up. They’re probably still asleep, poor little things. As much as she wanted to wait and talk to Rachel and the other three children, she had to continue her normal routine. Any change would only alert Aunt Lydia that something was amiss.
She fetched her milking stool and left the offerings where she was sure Rachel would see them, including a note that she would see her at nightfall. As soon as she finished her morning chores, Lotte ch
