“Mebby; but that ain’t it,” breathed Pant.
“Well, whatever it is, be quick about it. Somebody out front may spill the beans any time. If the military police rush the boys, the game’s up.”
Pant paid no attention. His movements were as steady and cautious as a cat stalking a robin.
“Now, I guess we’re about ready,” he murmured. “Be prepared for a dash. There’s stairs to the right. I may start something.” His words were short and quick. Evidently his heart was giving him trouble.
“All right,” Johnny stood on tip-toes in his agitation.
Suddenly Pant reared his tube in air. Then, to Johnny’s utter astonishment, he dropped on one knee and peered into an opening at one side of it.
“A periscope!” whispered Johnny. “But what can you see in the dark?”
For a moment Pant did not answer. His breath came in little gasps.
“She’s there,” he whispered. “She’s tied. There’s terror in her eyes. There’s something crawling on the floor. Can’t make it out. We gotta get up there quick.”
All at once a shot rang out. It came from the window. The tinkle of broken glass sliding down the bamboo tube told that the periscope was a wreck.