The Frenchman seemed to wince, but at that moment a call from the huddled man in the corner attracted his attention. He bent over him, drew back the covering and revealed in the lantern's glow the face of Labenstein.
The German raised himself on one elbow, and a wild look came over his face. His eyes gleamed brightly for a moment.
"They—they here!" he murmured. "Well, perhaps it is better so."
"How better? What does he mean?" asked Blake. "Does he think——"
"Hush!" and the Frenchman spoke softly. "This is the end—of Labenstein!" And even as he spoke the man fell back dead.
Lieutenant Secor seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, as though the death of the other had brought a great release to him.
"Now I can speak," said the officer. "Now I can explain, and perhaps you will again regard me as a friend," he said softly.
"Well," returned Blake, "you probably saved our lives by helping us get out of the tunnel. But as for being friends with——"
"Please do not say it," begged the lieutenant. "I have had to play a part. It is over now. I can again take my place with my comrades and fight openly for France. For I have learned all his secrets and whence the spy-leaks came. Now my unpleasant mission is over!"
"What—what do you mean?" asked Joe, beginning, as did his chums, to have an inkling of the truth. "Aren't you two working together against us and for Germany?"