[CHAPTER XXII]
THE TREASURE
But the astonishment of the boys was not nearly so great as that of the poilu, who held the lantern aloft so as to permit its yellow glare to fall full upon the Red Cross men; it was a moment or two, indeed, before he found his voice.
And, while the two groups stared intently toward one another, he broke the profound silence by exclaiming harshly:
"You here again! Didn't I expressly order you to keep away!" Advancing, he peered menacingly into Chase Manning's face. "Your persistency in coming here is quite remarkable. Now, perhaps you will answer a few questions."
"Go ahead," exclaimed Chase, defiantly.
A number of soldiers crowded about the four. Upon their faces picturesque flashes of light stood out against deep, somber shadows, which lost themselves in the background like a painting of some old Dutch master.
"Where were you when the Germans started to bombard the château?"
"In the tower," replied Chase, shortly.