“If we only had infantry or artillery here,” groaned Alexis, “there would be a different story to tell.”
“I’m sure of that,” replied Hal; “but to advance in the face of such overwhelming numbers would be foolish.”
“True,” said Alexis, “but I never like to see a Cossack run from his foes, no matter what their number.”
It was plain now that the Russian commander realized the futility of further fighting with his vastly superior foe. The Cossacks gave way more rapidly and finally turned and began their retreat upon Lodz.
“And here we are right in the middle of the Germans,” said Chester. “What are we going to do?”
“We’ll have to try to get back to our lines,” said Hal, “and the sooner we start the better.”
“Good,” said Chester. “Let’s start at once.”
Alexis had so far recovered now as to announce that he was feeling “perfectly fit,” and making a slight detour, the three friends, closely followed by Marquis, set out.
They had progressed possibly half a mile, when Marquis suddenly began to growl.
“What do you suppose is the matter with him?” demanded Chester.