This plan was followed and a soldier directed them to the fort. They were just about to enter it and trust to luck, when their attention was attracted by the sound of a scuffle a short distance down the street.
“Let’s see what it is about,” said Jack. “It may help us in some way.”
Lord Hastings nodded his assent, and they dashed toward a struggling knot of men only a few yards away.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE ESCAPE.
When Frank reached shore after being taken from the German cruiser, he was received courteously by the officer in command of Fort Kaiserin—one of the German fortifications along the Kiel canal. The latter questioned him at length regarding the D-16, and the lad gave what information he believed could be of no value to the enemy.
At first it was announced that the lad would be taken to Berlin that day, but later as the reader has already learned this was deferred till the next.
“If you will give me your parole,” said the German commander, “I shall be glad to allow you the freedom of the fort.”
“I appreciate your kindness,” replied Frank, “and I am sorry that I do not feel myself at liberty to accept.”
The officer shrugged his shoulders.
“There is little danger of your getting away,” he said. “However, I find it my duty, in view of your refusal, to order you confined.”