Immediately, Chester swung the horses to the right in among the trees, which, fortunately, happened to be dense at this particular point.
"Guess we'll give 'em a little surprise," said Chester, with a grin.
Dismounting, he motioned the men to unhitch the horses, which was done.
Then the gun was whirled into position where it commanded the roadway.
"We're ready for them," said Chester, quietly.
The Germans drew on apace. Suddenly a thought struck Chester.
"Great Scott!" he exclaimed. "I can't shoot them down in cold blood, I'll have to give them a chance. Here!" he motioned to one of his men and the latter approached. "Take this gun," the lad commanded. "I'm going to give these fellows a chance to surrender. If they refuse I'll duck back here and you let them have it. I'll keep out of range, but don't turn this gun until I get back. Understand?"
The man signified that he did.
Chester walked some distance back to where the road curved a bit. He was out of the direct line of fire, but still in such position to make his demand for the surrender of the Germans without allowing them to pass the sweep of the rapid-firer.
With the Germans still some distance down the road, Chester stepped directly into the highway and raised a hand.
The leading Germans pulled up and an officer demanded: