“I know it,” said Tom, quietly. “But this may be the eleventh successful time. Now that's my plan for rescuing Harry Leroy. If any of you have a better one let's hear it.”
No one answered, and finally Nellie spoke.
“No,” she said, with a shake of her head, “it's very fine and noble of you boys, but I can't allow it. If you wouldn't let me give myself up—exchange myself for Harry, I can't let you give your lives for him this way. It wouldn't be fair. It would be depriving the Allies of two valuable fighters, to possibly get back one, and the possibility is so slim that—well, it's suicidal!” she exclaimed.
“Not so much so as you think,” said Tom. “I've got it all figured out as far as possible. And as for landing in hostile territory, if all goes well, and the big battle progresses as Pershing and his aides think it will, maybe we won't have to land in hostile territory at all. We may drive the Germans back, and then the prison will be within our lines.”
“That's so!” cried Jack. “I didn't think of feat. Tom, old man, maybe your scheme isn't as crazy as I thought! Anyhow, I'm in it with you. The only thing is—will this big battle take place?”
“'It will unless the Germans decide to surrender between now and the day set,” Tom answered grimly, “and I hardly believe they'll do that. It's a going to be some fight!”
“Glad of it!” cried Jack. “Now we've got something to live for!” As if he and Tom did not risk their lives every day to make life in the civilized world something worth living for.
“Well, we must be getting back!” exclaimed Tom, as he looked at his watch. “All leaves will be stopped in a few days—just before we start preparations for the big battle. If we can we'll see you once more before then.”
“And afterward?” inquired Nellie, softly and pleadingly.
“Yes, and afterward, too!” exclaimed Tom. “And we'll bring Harry back with us. Now good-bye!”