All the streets which the taxi traversed were familiar to the boys now, and they pointed out different places of interest to each other as they sped along. Finally the taxi drew up and stopped.
The young German leaped lightly to the ground, and stood there as the boys emerged from the taxi. Looking up, the lads beheld a handsome and commodious house.
“My home,” said the lieutenant simply, “and yours, so long as you are forced to remain in Berlin.”
The lads followed their captor up the steps, and into a prettily furnished hall, where a servant, summoned by the officer, hurried away with word for Mrs. Strauss, for, as Lieutenant Heinrich Strauss, the officer now introduced himself to the boys.
A few moments later a pleasant-faced woman appeared in the hall. The boys were quickly introduced to her, and she made them welcome, adding:
“I am sure the general also will be pleased to have you with us.”
Both lads looked questioningly at the young officer, who hastened to explain.
“General Strauss is my father, in command in Berlin. Perhaps were it not for that, I would not have ventured to bring you to my home. You would have to have gone with the other prisoners.”
“Thanks,” said Chester. “I am sure we both appreciate it.”
“Indeed we do,” agreed Hal.