"Firing? Considerable, but I thought some party nearer in had struck such a haul of game as you landed last night, Sergeant. Go on and tell me about it."
This Hal did, and it was all news to the lieutenant, for neither he nor any member of his hunting party had seen the helio signals.
Just as the brief spirited tale was finished the remainder of the hunting party came in, one of them being a private of hospital corps. To this man was entrusted the attending of the injured invaders.
Hinkey fairly cowered before the scorn that was apparent in the eyes of all his former comrades.
The evening meal was now nearly ready. By Hal's direction another table was set up for Lieutenant Prescott and his guests.
Then came the early, cool night. Prescott and his Naval friends sat apart for an hour, talking over the old times. Then, at last, they came over and joined the soldiers.
"May I ask a question, Lieutenant?" inquired Sergeant Hal, saluting.
"Certainly, Sergeant."
"What is to be done with the prisoners?"
"You are in command here, Sergeant."