“Wait,” said Gordon, “by and by it may be more convenient to have a row with him—but I reckon not; it’s a mighty poor plan to play with powder.”
During the day, we were often required to march in the fields by the side of the roads, to make way for passage of troops and war vehicles. In the afternoon, however, we turned off on a road in a north-east direction that was less congested with troops and military material.
When we were halted, and rations of the same meagre and unpalatable kind were issued to us, my comrade and I held a consultation, taking care, however, that our manner should not excite suspicion.
“It is possible,” said Gordon, “that before long we may be put on the cars and sent by train to some German prison; and then, our chances to escape will be small.”
“I wonder if any of these men speak English,” I mused.
“I reckon not,” said Gordon. “But I can speak enough German to make myself understood.”
“Have you heard them say where they are taking us?”
He shook his head. “These men know nothing beyond their orders, and possibly only that non-com. knows that much. These German officers give orders, but don’t explain them. I do know that they expect to cross a river soon. I heard them asking if there was a bridge, and making jokes about swimming.”
“Can you swim, Gordon?”
“Like a duck,” he answered, “and I sure would like to take a dive right now!”