"All of us?" exclaimed Hal.
"Yes," the major replied. "I have made trips in it before. The machine will carry ten passengers beside a pilot."
"And you do the driving, eh?" said Hal.
"No," said the major. "I have never learned the art. The pilot is with the craft."
"You mean he is in hiding in the woods?"
"Exactly."
"Great Scott!" cried Hal. "I wouldn't care about his job. Your job now isn't so bad, because you've a chance of action. But just think of sitting in a woods and waiting—waiting—never knowing what minute you are likely to be discovered."
"It is hard," agreed the major. "And here I am refreshed by a night's sleep, while he must remain there in the cold with his eyes open every minute."
"If he is discovered, then what?" asked Chester.
"His instructions, if discovered," said the major, "are to attempt to escape, leaving me behind."