The German balked again but under the same gentle pressure as before sang in husky tones and guttural accents the stirring measures of our national hymn.
"And last of all," shouted Frank, while the throng, wild with delight, surged forward once more, "our dear enemy will, with all the reverence due the greatest flag in the world, kneel here in the dust and kiss the Stars and Stripes. Now then, kneel."
"I vill not," cried the German, trying to wrench himself free. "You cannot force me—"
"We'll see about that," said Frank, while the crowd grew threatening once more. "Will you do it—or shall I make you?"
"I will not do it," the Prussian reiterated stubbornly. "I have done all the rest but dat I vill not."
"Kiss the flag," cried Frank, now thoroughly aroused, his knuckles showing white as they gripped his captive's collar. "Come on—we're waiting."
Slowly and relentlessly he forced the German to his knees, and driven by pain and fear of the mob his captive finally touched his lips to the flag.
"And now," cried Frank, flinging the Prussian from him and dusting off his hands as though they were polluted, "make yourself scarce. But remember after this to respect the American flag. Americans are behind it!"
The crowd pushed and jostled the disheveled vandal as he slunk away and then, after cheering Frank, gradually dispersed.
"Boy, it was neat work!" cried Bart, as the two friends crossed the street together. "Coming on to the office?"