Each automatic flashed once and two more of the foe fell to the ground. McKenzie staggered a bit as a German bullet plowed into his shoulder. Then his revolvers spoke again.
As he fought, the Canadian gave ground slowly. He seemed to bear a charmed life. Two other bullets struck him—one in the arm and the other in the thigh, but no one reached a vital spot.
Hal, Chester and Stubbs, in the meantime, had reached and crossed the Dutch border. There they were immediately taken in charge by order of' the Dutch officer in command. Hal addressed the officer quickly.
"Can't you do something for my friend?" he demanded, pointing to where
McKenzie was still battling against heavy odds.
The Dutch, officer shook his head.
"I would if I could," he said, his face flushed.
"He is a brave man, and it is a pity for him to die thus. But Holland is neutral. To interfere might embroil us."
"But if I can show you how?" asked Hal eagerly.
"If you can show me how, yes!" exclaimed the Dutchman. "Talk quickly."
"We carry Dutch passports," said Hal quietly. "That should suffice.
However, cannot you send your men forward under the pretext that the
Dutch border at this point extends an additional one hundred yards?
That will be enough."