"Now the sooner we get away from this spot the better," said Chester.
They advanced directly west toward the extreme German front.
"We'll have to depend on boldness to take us through," said Hal. "It is unlikely that we shall be questioned until we reach the outposts and then we'll have to make a break for it."
"Suits me," said Chester.
They walked along leisurely, passing countless German soldiers standing about; but little attention was paid to them. Occasionally a man nodded to them and the lads returned the salutation.
Gradually they drew away from the main body of troops and neared the outposts. Here German troopers were engaged in throwing up breastworks against a possible attack by the French in the morning.
"Guess we won't have far to go if we can get beyond the outposts," muttered Hal. "These preparations indicate the Germans have just won this ground. The French can't be far away."
Chester nodded in token of assent, and at that moment they came up to the workers. Casually they stood and watched the German soldiers digging for a few moments; then wandered in among them, keeping close together.
"When I give the word!" whispered Hal.
Chester nodded.