His first shot went a trifle high. The next was sent with truer aim, and a terrific roar greeted the boys. Just as the blast reverberated through the clearing several horsemen dashed into view from the highway.
One in the lead shouted an order to his companions, as he pointed toward the group of boys. Instantly the others dashed forward across the clearing. The boys were quickly surrounded by the horsemen, who threatened them with drawn revolvers. Harry slipped the rifle into its resting place.
The leader was shouting questions and orders in German.
Ned shook his head and held up his hand. He took a step forward.
"I cannot understand you," he said. "Can you speak English?"
"Not very well," answered the officer, "but good enough to tell you to surrender. Escape is impossible. You must come with us!"
"What is the charge?" queried Ned. "What have we done?"
The officer laughed loudly. Apparently the joke was a huge one.
"Charge?" he repeated incredulously. "Do you not know that war is in progress, and it is not necessary to have charge or warrant? You are prisoners because we carry our warrants in these," indicating his revolver. "You must either come with us or be shot. Which shall it be?"
"We surrender!" stated Ned hopelessly. "Where do we go?"