"Besides," said Stubbs, "if the Bulgarians were killed here by the Serbians, the chances are the Bulgarian commander will want to know how it happens we weren't killed also."
"Stubbs," said Hal, "I told you you were always a kill-joy. You can pick more flaws in things than any one I can think of. We'll tell the Bulgarians that story and take a chance on its passing muster."
"Then we may as well say our prayers now," said Stubbs mournfully.
"But what will we tell them we are?" asked Chester.
"Americans," replied Hal. "Caught here by the retreat. We were just making our way out of the country. I'll do the talking."
"All right," said Chester, and added: "Sh-h-h, here they come now!"
CHAPTER XXVII.
PRISONERS.
Came a knock at the door.
"You answer it, Miss Ellison, please," said Hal, adding: "If you are questioned, tell the same story you told Chester."