Three Germans only now remained on their feet, and as Lord Hastings, Jack and Frank advanced upon them they turned and fled.
“Quick!” cried Lord Hastings. “Follow me! We’ll have the whole garrison upon us in a moment!”
He turned and dashed back along the dark road, Frank and Jack following.
From behind came the sounds of a terrible commotion. The garrison was aroused, and the fugitives realized that speed was the only thing that would save their lives.
Without a word they sped along as fast as their legs would carry them. In the darkness Lord Hastings would have passed the spot where they had hidden the launch had not Jack’s keen eyes recognized it as he flashed by.
“Wait!” he called, stopping so suddenly that Frank, who was directly behind him, bumped him and almost knocked him off his feet.
Lord Hastings also stopped.
“What’s the matter?” he demanded.
“You have gone too far,” cried Jack. “Here!”
He stepped in under the trees and laid a hand upon the launch. Frank and Lord Hastings lent a helping hand, and soon the little boat was floating upon the water.