"Ah, ha! Just as I thought!" declared Jimmie with some heat.
"However," continued the officer, "I shall make sure he remains until my return. I shall leave him on guard!"
"Good night!" wailed Jimmie. "The Rat! That's the limit!"
Evidently pleased at his solution of a difficult problem the officer turned to his companion, who came hurrying back from his trip to the monoplane. Addressing him rapidly in French, the officer evidently outlined his plan, for the boys saw a crafty look of satisfaction appear on the repulsive face. He eyed the boys with a disgusting leer.
"I shall be compelled to search you, gentlemen!" announced the officer, stepping forward. "One at a time, please!"
Rapidly he felt the pockets of the lads, but discovered nothing.
"Now, if you please, will you not step into the stable so convenient?" he asked pleasantly as if inviting the boys to lunch. "I shall leave the gentleman on guard armed with my pistol and shall return with my superior officer as quickly as I can. Thank you," he added as the boys stepped toward the stable in obedience to his request.
Adjusting a big bar across the door, their captor called out:
"Await me with patience. I shall not be gone long."