The lads obeyed, and the sentry came close to them. Perceiving that the figures he had accosted were attired in women's clothing, he dropped his rifle and demanded:
"What are you doing here?"
"We have been selling apples to the soldiers," replied Hal in French in a shrill voice.
The soldier understood French and replied:
"Where are your baskets?"
Hal replied as he had been instructed by the little war correspondent.
"Well," said the sentry, apparently satisfied, "you have no business around here at this hour of the night. Go quickly."
The lads needed no further urging, and, bearing off a trifle to the north, continued their journey.
Their shoulders stooped and their shawls thrown over their heads so they could barely see, they went on with slowly shambling steps.
"When we get back to America," whispered Chester, "I am going on the stage as a female impersonator."