For perhaps five minutes they walked along without interruption, but at the end of that time Hal, still in advance, made out a form approaching them. He stopped in his tracks, and the others also stood stock still.
Hal now perceived that there were two figures advancing instead of one. He reached back a hand and pulled Chester to his side. The two lads moved forward together.
In the darkness it was impossible for the men who moved toward them to make out the lads' uniforms, so, though they perceived the approaching figures, they naturally took Hal and Chester for their own kind.
They moved slightly to one side in order that Hal and Chester might pass. Instead, the lads stepped quickly up to them and shoved their guns in their faces.
"Silence!" said Chester quietly. "Silence or you are dead men!"
Chester's tone left no room for doubt, and the Germans stood still without a word. Hal now made out that they were officers—both lieutenants.
"Take off your clothes," said Hal briefly.
The Germans understood the lad's plan, but under the muzzle of two guns, they did not protest, and quickly stripped to their under-garments. Hal and Chester each took possession of one of the officer's revolvers. Then, covering the two men, Hal said:
"Get into one of those uniforms while I keep them covered, Chester."
Chester obeyed promptly, and then he, in turn, covered the men while
Hal changed clothes.