"I never joke of serious matters," he said quietly. "But what interest have you in these prisoners?"
"Well, I have considerable interest," was the reply. "One of them happens to be my nephew. What have they been doing?"
"I couldn't say as to that. All I know is that they are spies."
"You're crazy," shouted Uncle John, now becoming angry. "They are British army officers, and American citizens."
The young officer drew himself up.
"Crazy, am I?" he demanded. "March!" he ordered his men.
"Here, hold on a minute," gasped Uncle John. "I didn't mean to ruffle your feelings; but one of those boys is my nephew. I tell you they are British officers."
"I trust they will be able to prove it," said the Italian.
"What?" demanded Uncle John. "Why?"
"Because," replied the officer with a pleasant smile, "they probably will be shot if they don't."