“No, sir. I’m guarding the road in the hope of picking up three prisoners who escaped from the camp at Villingen.”
“I see,” said Hal. “Word flashed ahead, eh?”
“Yes, sir, and it was deemed probable they would come along this road.”
“I haven’t seen anything of them en route,” said Hal. “It may be that they are behind us. Wish you luck, lieutenant. Sorry I can’t stay and have a hand in the capture, but I bear important dispatches and must be on my way. Will you please move your car to one side of the road?”
“Sorry, sir,” said the lieutenant, “but I am instructed to examine carefully every one who passes.”
“Oh, well, I suppose I can drive around you,” said Hal, eyeing the side of the road.
“One moment, sir,” said the lieutenant as Hal turned to move away. “I am satisfied with you, sir, but I must interrogate your companions. Remember, it is my duty, sir.”
“Very well, then, lieutenant,” said Hal. “Proceed, sir.”
Chester approached and replied to the German’s questions without hesitancy. Then Harding was forced to step forward.
One look at the big Englishman was enough for the German lieutenant. Nevertheless, he spoke in German.