"And probably court-martialed and shot if this night's proceedings ever leaks out," muttered the German. "However, there is no help for it."
He suffered himself to be bound and gagged without opposition, and Hal then stretched him out on the floor again.
"Now," said the lad, "I guess our way is clear once more."
He moved toward the door, with the others following. Glancing out, he raised a hand suddenly and motioned the others to silence.
Outside two figures approached the house cautiously.
Hal called Chester to his side and the two watched the approaching figures. It was too dark outside to distinguish the features of the men who approached, but there was no room for doubt that they were enemies.
"Back inside and put out the light," whispered Hal. "They're coming in." The light was extinguished promptly. Then Hal added: "Be ready to grab them and stifle their cries the minute they are inside and I have closed the door behind them."
Those in the house stood silent.
A moment later the door moved cautiously inward. Then two shadowy forms stepped inside. Immediately Hal kicked shut the door behind them and sprang forward to lend a hand to Chester and Major Derevaux, who had pounced upon the strangers as they entered.
"Don't let them cry out and don't kill them if you can help it," the lad cried.