"And then they'll find that the birds have metaphorically but not literally flown away," said Carstairs, a tone of exultation showing in his voice also. "In this battle between the forces of the air and the forces of the earth the good old solid earth has won."
"But it may not always win," said John. "When I was up with Lannes, I saw what the aeroplane could do, and we are bound to admit that if it hadn't been for the grove they'd have got us."
"Right-o!" said Carstairs.
"True as Gospel," said Wharton.
"Do you know where the road is?" asked John. "Now that our horses are gone we've got to do some good walking."
"Here it is," said Carstairs. "Seven miles farther on is the little hamlet of Courville, where we can buy horses."
"Then walk, you terriers, walk!" said Wharton.
The three bending their heads walked side by side toward the hamlet of Courville, which they were destined never to reach.