"I'll tell you," said Hal. "Five of us should be able to fight our way through that crowd without shooting. We'll club our revolvers, and make a break for it, keeping as close together as possible."
"As good a way as any," agreed the first officer, a colonel of infantry. "As I am the senior of this party, I suppose it is up to me to take command. All ready, gentlemen?"
"All ready, sir," came the reply from each of the other four.
"Then let's go. Forward!"
With revolvers upraised, but without a sound, the five Americans stepped forward. They did not seem to hurry; they were perfectly cool. But it was apparent to every German in the crowd that they were in deadly earnest.
For a moment the crowd gave way; then closed in again.
Knives flashed in German hands; clubs were raised.
Hal, walking close to Chester's side, caught a slashing knife arm with his left hand, still gripping his revolver, and twisted sharply. There was a screech from the German, followed by a snap that announced the man would not use the arm for some time to come.
The Germans sprang forward, and despite the unbroken front presented by the five Americans, they were borne back by the force of numbers. It appeared that the Yankee officers had underestimated the temper of their foes.
They retreated fighting, until their backs were against a house.