CHAPTER XIII.
NOT CAUGHT NAPPING.
Frank was perfectly satisfied with the promise given him by Major Nixon. He knew the bluff British soldier would keep his word to the letter. While the man who had been caught hiding in the hangar of the young American aviators would be taken to a place of security and kept carefully guarded, in order to prevent his knowledge concerning the contemplated aërial raid from leaking out, at the same time his life would not pay the penalty of his capture.
After some more conversation covering the matter Frank, knowing the other to be very busy, took his leave.
“A last word of warning, my boy,” said the soldier, after shaking hands. “Keep on the alert wherever you go in Dunkirk. While the place itself is loyal, and is thronged now with soldiers of every type, at the same time we know there are many secret sympathizers with the other side here trying to learn the plans of our generals, so that they can communicate them to the Kaiser’s leaders.”
“But why should I be picked out for trouble?” asked Frank.
“Because they know that you are here to complete a deal entered into with the French Government in connection with your wonderful seaplane before this war was dreamed of. They would be willing to do something to prevent you from standing between their plans and the securing or destroying of the machine in the hangar.”
“I had not thought of it in that light,” said Frank, disturbed more or less.
“Pardon me for saying it,” continued the Major, “but they understand that if you could only be made to disappear your companions would be much easier to hoodwink, and their plans looking toward destroying the Sea Eagle would be crowned with success. You will be doubly careful, Frank, I hope.”
The boy promised this. Even though he might not be willing to admit that these secret agents of the Kaiser would dream of attempting any violence, at the same time he saw the soldier was really concerned about him.