"You boys are wanted at the rear," he announced. "Walk directly along the train and report at the coach reserved for the Kaiser."
"Yes, sir," answered Jimmie, giving the Boy Scout salute. "And who shall we find there to whom we shall report?"
"Fritz and Otto, whom you both know, will be on duty. Tell them that I have sent you back and that you are there for special duty. They are expecting you and will give you instructions."
"Very good, sir," replied Jimmie gravely. Then, as von Liebknecht turned to proceed toward the little station building, he added:
"I see an accident has happened to the aeroplane. I hope the aviator was not badly injured. They're carrying him away."
For a moment von Liebknecht paused to look searchingly into the face of the boy. Jimmie returned his gaze unflinchingly. He said afterward that it was quite the hardest thing he had ever attempted, and several times he was on the point of letting his gaze wander. However, he stood the ordeal well and presently heard the other say:
"He is not badly injured. A few minor contusions and a scratch or so comprise all his hurts. It is very fortunate, however, for all parties concerned," placing peculiar emphasis upon the phrase, "that it is no more serious. It might mean trouble for some one."
"I sure am glad that the fellow is able to get about," was Jimmie's statement. "He's a plucky chap, and from what I saw of him when he landed he is an expert in the matter of handling the aeroplane. It would certainly be a pity if he should be killed or badly injured."
"The German army would lose one of its very best aviators if he were gone," von Liebknecht replied, "and although the loss of his life would be irreparable, it might be decided to take payment in kind."
"Meaning?" asked Jimmie, paling slightly under the freckles as the full import of the other's words came to him.