It was as Buck said, “just as if they had been Americans.”
CHAPTER XXII
THE BOYS PERFORM AN ACT OF MERCY
The Austrian commandant’s story of the frightful privations which his garrison had undergone, stirred all four of the boys deeply. Buck took Ned to one side and said:
“Did you note all of the awful things that the governor there says these poor chaps have had to eat?”
“Yes.”
“Well, what do you say to inviting him on the sly to have one little square meal with us aboard the Flyer before we leave? Just leave it to me to make it a Jim dandy! I’d like to feed the whole lot of them if only we had the victuals.”
“Let’s ask the commandant if he will accept,” said Ned, brightening.
The Austrian listened gravely to their well-meant offer, but the boys could feel him stiffening.
“You forget, gentlemen, that whatever hardships the soldier of the dual monarchy may have to suffer, his officers are proud to endure with him. I thank you for your courtesy, but cannot honorably accept it.”