“They’re certainly nice girls though,” said Billy, feebly, “especially Helen.”
“She hasn’t anything on Alice,” remarked Tom.
“Lucky you haven’t picked out the same one,” laughed Frank, “or I’d have my hands full in keeping the peace. Come along now if you’re ready.”
At the breakfast table they received the same pleasant greeting as on the night before, but there was a certain lack of freedom in the conversation that all felt. The little element of suspicion that had been aroused by Helen’s remark still persisted. The boys kept a guard on their lips as regarded all military matters, and as just at that time there was little to talk about except the war, the remarks made were few and far between and they felt relieved when the meal was finished. Perhaps Billy and Tom were exceptions, for although they did not say much with their lips, their eyes were eloquent in the glances they stole at the girls.
It was necessary for the Army Boys to report at the quarters of the regiment, but after that formality was through with they had no difficulty in getting leave and started off in high feather to enjoy their unaccustomed freedom.
There was a host of places that well repaid their visit, museums, picture galleries, the quaint old world buildings, the great cathedral, and others equally noteworthy. It was such a relief to be among scenes of peace after the horrors and bloodshed of so many months that they enjoyed it doubly. They took their dinner at a hotel, where though the prices were high the food was surprisingly good, and toward evening returned to the home where they had been billeted.
As they neared the house, they saw a man loitering near it who seemed to have no special business in the vicinity, but kept sauntering to and fro smoking a cigar. As he saw them coming, he hesitated a moment as though half inclined to turn and go in the other direction, but seemed to think better of it, giving them a quick, sharp look as he passed them.
He was in civilian dress and at first they thought he was a native of the place, but his face showed that he was unmistakably an Englishman or an American, they were not sure which.
“Wonder what that fellow is hanging around here for?” Tom remarked, as they went up the steps of the house.
“Oh the streets are free—that is to every one but a German, and that chap isn’t that,” remarked Billy.