"He's asleep, all right," said Hal briefly. "We need look for no help there."
But in this the lad was mistaken, as he was soon to learn.
The silence from His Lordship's station evidently had caused the
Germans to believe that one of their bullets must have gone home, for
they came into the open and appeared to be ready to make a dash upon
Hal and Chester.
Immediately both lads opened upon them, and several fell. In spite of this, however, the Germans came on. But, as they drew closer to the house, and the lads continued to pour lead into them, there came several quick flashes from the window next door, and as many Germans dropped in their tracks.
His Lordship's repeating rifle was at work once more. The Germans drew off.
His Lordship pumped lead into them right and left as they dashed for the nearest shelter, and by the time they reached it half the number who had rushed forward lay upon the ground.
Now, from the distance, came the sound of trampling hoofs. The sound came from the rear, and in another second the Germans broke from behind their shelter and fled swiftly.
A force of French cavalry dashed into view around the house.
Both lads heaved a sigh of relief and left their refuge.
"May as well go in and tell His Lordship he can finish his nap," said
Hal.