"Then, before you go let me prepare some food for you to eat on the way there."
The boys laughed. "Oh, no!" responded Alfred, "we can find plenty as we go through the villages, besides——"
A shout in the house interrupted him. Their host held up a warning finger, as he said: "No, no. For a day or two, at least you will be going through territory which is being scoured by the Uhlans. You must give the roads a wide berth, and avoid the villages. Besides, you will find many German sympathizers throughout this province, so it will not be safe to visit the houses."
As he ceased speaking he turned to a low structure, opened a door and invited them to go in and await his return. After he disappeared, Ralph paced the little room impatiently.
"I don't like this arrangement," he finally said.
"Nor I," muttered Alfred. "Suppose we go?"
Ralph was at the door in an instant. It had been bolted.
"Do you suppose he did that purposely?" asked Ralph.
"I haven't any doubt of it," replied Alfred, "and now it's our business to fool the old fellow."