"No; we must use him. We can shoot him later."
The sergeant crept silently upon the old farmer from the rear. It was the work of a few seconds to overpower him and cast him helpless on the ground.
The two officers went forward. As they descended the slope they became aware that the lights were less visible.
"They're intended as signals to an aeroplane," said Schnauzzahn, approaching them rapidly. "See! They are directed above."
"Villainous treachery! But our good German wits will defeat it. Listen! Do you hear an engine?"
"No," replied the lieutenant after a brief silence.
"Then we have still time. Ascher, move the lamps near the slope. We'll spoil his landing!"
The sergeant carried the lamps to the foot of the slope, and placed them close together.
"Not so, idiot!" cried the captain, "arrange them as they were before. Don't you understand?"
Hardly had the lamps been rearranged in their triangular position when the whirring of an engine was heard through the thunder of the distant guns.