“If I may make so bold,” said Hal, “you are not so old yourself.”
“True,” said the German, with a pleasant smile. “But I am twenty,” he added proudly.
“Then we are not much younger than you,” said Chester.
“Well, maybe not; but you seem to have had a whole lot more fun.”
His other work disposed of, the German turned to the two lads.
“Come with me,” he said, and the boys followed him.
“I am at liberty to accept your parole,” said the young German, “if you are prepared to give it.”
Chester glanced quickly at Hal, and the latter replied.
“We appreciate your offer very much, but we decided long ago that we would give our parole to no one.”