THE BOY VOLUNTEERS SERIES
By KENNETH WARD

12mo. Cloth. Fully Illustrated  50c per Volume

The Newest Boys' Books on the European War, Relating the Adventures of Two American Boys and Their Experiences in Battle and on Air Scout Duty. All Profusely Illustrated with Authentic Drawings.

The Boy Volunteers on the Belgian Front

Describes the adventures of two American boys who were in Europe when the great war commenced. Their enlistment with Belgian troops and their remarkable experiences are based upon actual occurrences and the book is replete with line drawings of fighting machines, air planes and maps of places where the most important battles took place and of other matters of interest.

The Boy Volunteers with the French Airmen

This book relates the further adventures of the young Americans in France, where they viewed the fighting from above the firing lines. From this book the reader gains considerable knowledge of the different types of air planes and battle planes used by the warring nations, as all descriptions are illustrated with unusually clear line drawings.

The Boy Volunteers with the British Artillery

How many boys to-day know anything about the great guns now being used on so many European battle fronts? Our young friends had the rare opportunity of witnessing, at first hand, a number of these terrific duels, and the story which is most fascinatingly told is illustrated with numerous drawings of the British, French and German field pieces.

The Boy Volunteers with the Submarine Fleet

Our young heroes little expected to be favored with so rare an experience as a trip under the sea in one of the great submarines. In this book the author accurately describes the submarine in action, and the many interesting features of this remarkable fighting craft are made clear to the reader by a series of splendid line drawings.

Describes the adventures of two American boys who were in Europe when the great war commenced. Their enlistment with Belgian troops and their remarkable experiences are based upon actual occurrences and the book is replete with line drawings of fighting machines, air planes and maps of places where the most important battles took place and of other matters of interest.

This book relates the further adventures of the young Americans in France, where they viewed the fighting from above the firing lines. From this book the reader gains considerable knowledge of the different types of air planes and battle planes used by the warring nations, as all descriptions are illustrated with unusually clear line drawings.

How many boys to-day know anything about the great guns now being used on so many European battle fronts? Our young friends had the rare opportunity of witnessing, at first hand, a number of these terrific duels, and the story which is most fascinatingly told is illustrated with numerous drawings of the British, French and German field pieces.

Our young heroes little expected to be favored with so rare an experience as a trip under the sea in one of the great submarines. In this book the author accurately describes the submarine in action, and the many interesting features of this remarkable fighting craft are made clear to the reader by a series of splendid line drawings.

THE NEW YORK BOOK COMPANY
PUBLISHERS  NEW YORK

"They are the fellows who stopped our train," said Ralph.

The Boy Volunteers
on the
Belgian Front

BY
KENNETH WARD
THE NEW YORK BOOK COMPANY
NEW YORK

Copyright, 1917, by
AMERICAN AUTHORS PUBLISHING CO.

CONTENTS

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

THE BOY VOLUNTEERS
ON THE
BELGIAN FRONT

CHAPTER I
AN INTERRUPTED JOURNEY

"Give it more gas; more gas, Pierre; they are coming up the cross road!" exclaimed Ralph excitedly, as he leaned forward.

Pierre the chauffeur looked straight ahead and nodded, as he answered: "Oui, oui!"

Before he had gone a hundred feet farther the occupants of the machine heard something like a shot, and Pierre turned his head slightly.

"Two kilometers more and we shall be in Belgium," he said.

This information did not seem to appease the two boys in the tonneau. Of the two, Alfred was the more excited, but Ralph kept up a constant flow of talk as he leaned out and gazed across the valley along which the machine was now shooting with tremendous speed.

Several more gunshots were heard as they passed an open stretch and ascended a hill.

"Are they firing at us?" inquired Ralph.

Pierre nodded.

"What for?" asked Alfred.

"They are Germans," replied Pierre.

"Well, those fellows on horseback can never catch us," said Alfred.

Pierre smiled, and gave two long blasts on the Klaxon.

"Say, Pierre, two machines are racing down the road ahead of the troops."

The smile left Pierre's face as he gave the throttle lever a push. The machine bounded forward with an additional impulse. Ralph and Alfred looked at each other in still greater surprise.

A bridge was crossed and as the road beyond described a slight bend to the right, Pierre glanced over his shoulder for an instant to observe the new pursuers; then he glanced back to the rear wheel and the boys understood. The day before the tire had given trouble, but Pierre patched it up in the hope that by careful driving they would be able to reach Antwerp two days later.

There was no time for explanations. The two boys were too excited to think of anything else than the two autos which had now reached the road on which they came.

"Yes, they are coming this way now," said Ralph.

"Can we beat them?" asked Alfred.

"Well," replied Pierre, after some reflection, "the car ahead is a racing Mercedes."

The boys knew what that meant.

"What'll they do if they catch us?" said Ralph, as his eyes expanded and he nervously glanced back.

Pierre merely shook his head and remained silent.

The Mercedes was not gaining, however. The second car was trailing along some distance in the rear.

"Hurrah for Belgium!" shouted Pierre, as he gazed forward intently and nodded in the direction of two low structures which were now plainly visible at the sides of the roadway. The boys saw a distinctive flag on each building.

Pierre's hand was on the throttle as he neared the frontier, but he held the lever without drawing it back, while the car sped on. He gave two blasts on the horn, and repeated the signal.

In Europe every road which crosses the frontier has two sets of guards, one belonging to each country, and it is necessary for every one crossing the line to make a formal entry under the inspection of a government official.

No one appeared in the road in front of the lodges but it was a hazardous thing to cross the border without stopping, as the guards were authorized to shoot anyone who refused to halt, and the boys were equally aware of this danger in attempting such an escapade.

They were now not a hundred feet from the posts which marked the frontier and the speed of the car was not cut down. They were surprised to see Pierre's right hand withdrawn from the lever while he leaned forward and grasped the steering wheel with an intense grip.

ZIP! They shot past the boundary line without a challenge. The flag on the first lodge was German, indicated by the three horizontal stripes, black, white and red, and the flag on the other building had three vertical stripes, black, yellow and red, the colors of Belgium.

The Belgian Flag

The car fairly sizzled as it glided forward on a road that wound around a long curve parallel with the river and they had an excellent opportunity now to watch the pursuing car.

"That has a cross on the side of it, see?" said Ralph.

"It is a German military car," said Pierre.

"But why did they cross the frontier; and what right have they to try and to run us down, here in Belgium?" asked Alfred.

"Because Belgium is now at war with Germany," answered Pierre.

The boys drew back in astonishment.

"Since when?" asked Ralph.

"Since five o'clock last night," was Pierre's reply.

"When did you hear about it?" asked Alfred.

"While we were getting our luncheon at Dann," said Pierre.

"Is that why you were in such a hurry to start?" asked Ralph.

"Yes," was the reply.

The Mercedes now appeared to be gaining. It was becoming very exciting now to the boys, because the news stimulated their imagination. The pursuing car swung around the last curve in plain sight, but the other car was far in the rear. An officer could be seen in the front seat leaning out, with a gun pointing toward them and at the next turn of the road he deliberately fired.

The boys heard the crack of the rifle and in another instant were on the floor of the car, shielded by the rear seat. A hundred feet farther and there was a second explosion, much closer and more ominous than the noise of the gun. The machine gave a sudden lurch, and the boys arose, grasped the back of the front seat as Pierre shouted: "There it goes! It's all up!"

Pierre gained control of the machine which had violently swung to one side, but he did not slacken its speed.

They had barely time to recover from the shock when they were aroused by a fusilade of shots, and in a half-dazed condition they felt the shock of a suddenly-stopping car, and hear Pierre shout:

"Hurrah for the chasseurs!"

Alfred was the first to lean out and take note of the quickly passing events.

"Oh, look! see the horses leap the fences," he said.

The machine stopped dead still. The crashing noise of the horses and the shouts of the men held their attention.

Ralph opened the door of the car in excitement, as he sang out:

"Look at the machine back there; it's trying to turn around; it's starting."

But the Germans were too late. A half dozen of the chasseurs cut off their retreat. It thus happened that three officers, a sergeant, and a military chauffeur, became captives, three kilometers within Belgian territory, at 5 P. M., August 14, 1914, exactly twenty-four hours after war was declared. The first actual conflict, in which blood was shed, occurred the day previous—in fact, before war was declared, but this is the earliest recorded instance of the taking of prisoners of war in the great European conflict.

The troopers ordered the Mercedes car turned around and it was escorted forward to the delight of the boys, Pierre grinning at the occupants of the car as it passed. The Belgian officer in command halted and Pierre saluted him.

"There is another car beyond," said Pierre.

The officer gave a quick order and six men were detached for the pursuit, but they were too late. The car disappeared and could be seen crossing the bridge in the distance.

"Where are you from?" said the officer to Pierre.

"We left Mayence day before yesterday," answered Pierre.

"Did you see any troops on the way?"

"No; but the forces at the garrisons were very active," responded Pierre.

"Whose car is this?" he then asked.

"It belongs to an American, Mr. Elton. We left him in Darmstadt and are taking the car to Antwerp," said Pierre.

"Who are the young men with you?" asked the officer.

"This young man is Mr. Elton's son, and the other is his nephew. After going to Berlin Mr. Elton expects to go to Antwerp to take the steamer," answered Pierre.

"Follow us," said the officer to Pierre.

Several hamlets were passed and they motored along a beautiful valley. Beyond, on a slight elevation, appeared numerous houses, indicating a village of some importance.

"Is that Bovigny?" asked Pierre.

The officer nodded.

As they entered the town the streets were crowded. A regiment was encamped in the green which was, evidently, a park. Two squadrons of cavalry were drilling, and an artillery company was moving its guns toward the crest of a hill to the right. A band was playing; flags and pennants were flying everywhere, and the scene was one of intense excitement.

The troops had difficulty in keeping the people from the Mercedes, although they exhibited no enmity toward the Germans. It was more a matter of curiosity. The villagers appeared to be interested also in the boys and when Pierre informed the spectators that they were Americans, there was a cheer. The boys blushed as some of the more venturesome ones approached and shook their hands.

"Oh, no! they couldn't catch us," said Alfred with a laugh.

"How did you happen to pass the frontier officers?" asked one of them.

"Nobody there," replied Ralph. "We captured those fellows in Belgium."

There was a roar of laughter at this. The boys seemed to take pride not only in getting out of the clutches of the Germans, but also in the fact that they were instrumental, in a measure, in effecting the capture.

The crowd understood, and "L Americain" was frequently heard. It did not look like war. Everyone knew, of course, that Belgium had refused Germany's demand, and that war was upon them, but the scene reminded the boys of a huge picnic, with a lot of extras thrown in. Everyone was laughing and talking.

As an officer approached, Pierre saluted.

"You must drive to the rendezvous," said the officer.

Pierre nodded and followed the mounted lancer until they drew up before a military barracks where Pierre was requested to follow an orderly. The boys jumped out and accompanied him. After entering a long wide hall, filled with soldiers, they were conducted to the Commandant's office.

Without ceremony the orderly marched them to an officer who sat at the head of a long table, and who seemed to know the object of Pierre's visit.

"Who is the owner of your car? What is his address? What is its value?" These and other details were quickly asked and put down by a clerk.

At the close of the examination the officer said: "The car has been requisitioned by the Belgian government for military uses. The clerk will furnish you a certificate, and the owner will receive compensation for it in due time."

Pierre was out of a job, and the boys stranded without a machine. Pierre smiled, and the boys walked down the hill with a sort of jolly feeling. Why, they did not know.

"I shall join the colors at once," said Pierre.

"Good for you!" cried Ralph.

"Then you are a Belgian?" asked Alfred.

"Yes; and I must leave you, for it is necessary that I report in Brabant," he replied.

"And where is Brabant?" asked Ralph.

"This side of Antwerp; northeast of Liège," answered Pierre.

"How far are we from Liège?" asked Alfred.

"About forty miles; possibly fifty," said Pierre, at a venture.

"Then we can go with you," said Ralph, enthusiastically.

"I had that plan in my mind," answered Pierre. "But for the present we must find a place for the night."

They soon found that this was not an easy matter. Every place was crowded to its utmost. People were coming in from all directions in every kind of conveyance, the railway lines from Liège, to the east and north, and the main highways being crowded with soldiers and war equipment. Hundreds of soldiers were detailed to unload the cars, and they were all busily at work when the bugle gave the signal for the evening meal.

Before night set in several regiments of troops marched southeast, to points along the border, while new regiments came in to take their places.

CHAPTER II
THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH THE UHLANS

After an hour's search in every street and alley they learned that such a thing as shelter for the night, was impossible. Tents were being put up everywhere. Great army vans came lumbering in along the roads from the north, and were assigned positions. At twelve o'clock that night the town was just as lively as during the day, and in despair Pierre finally appealed to the driver and keeper of one of the vans, begging for place under the canvas top.

A pourboire (or tip, as the boys called it), was the power that found a way. The keeper suggested that sleeping under the burlap would be uncomfortable, as it was very warm; so a dozen or more bags of feed were unloaded and distributed on the ground beneath the van, and on those they finally found comfortable places.

Tired as they were, sleep seemed to be out of the question. The noise and bustle, the yells of incoming drivers, the creaking of the wagons and the incessant chatter of the soldiers all about them, kept them alert.

Two hours thereafter they felt a decided change in the temperature and soon rain began to fall. A gentle breeze at first dashed the light rain over them, and as the wind increased the drops fell faster and faster. The bags were moved over and some were propped up to provide shelter, but to no avail.

"Here, boys; get into the wagon quickly," shouted Pierre.

They crawled out and drew themselves up under the tarpaulin over which the water was now streaming in torrents. Once in the van they were soon asleep.

They were awakened before the sun appeared in the east. What they heard was like a suppressed murmur at first, evidently the quiet talk of the excited people outside. Distinct booms were heard, followed, as it were, by suppressed noises, which might have been echoes.

"What is that?" asked Ralph.

"Where?" inquired Alfred, raising the tarpaulin and gazing out.

"They don't know, but the driver thinks the firing is at Liège," answered Pierre.

"But that is more than forty miles away," said Ralph.

"Very true," replied Pierre, "but there are immense guns in the forts, and the Germans have heavy ordnance also."

When they left the vans, the sun was just appearing above the hill east of the town, bringing promise of a beautiful day.

"Now, for breakfast, boys, and then we start," suggested Pierre. Immediately after breakfast they marched to the station and Pierre requested three tickets for Liège. The agent smiled as he said:

"I can book you for Liège, but you will have to take the risk in getting there. The Germans have passed Verviers, and are investing the city. The first train leaves at nine o'clock, unless, in the meantime, there are orders to the contrary."

"Then we shall go to Brussels," replied Pierre.

"Ah, but that is impossible. The road is filled with troop trains coming this way. You cannot go west until to-morrow, or, perhaps, day after," answered the agent.

Here was, indeed, a dilemma. Pierre knew that to take a south-bound train, would involve a wide detour, as it would take them through Luxemburg. The road to the north branched at Trois Ponts, one line going directly east to Pepinster, the other to the north leading to Rivage and Liège. From Rivage they might be able to go directly north to Huy, by a highway, and thus avoid Liège. A train in either direction was impossible.

Pierre was determined, however, to proceed to the east on the first available train, and by the liberal use of money ascertained from those in charge of the station that a train would leave early in the morning. They were on hand and ready before five o'clock and were directed to cross the bridge and board the train at the extreme end of the track which connected with the main line. Arriving there they found a train already switching over, but, apparently, there were no passengers aboard.

"Come on," said Pierre, "let's take the chance."

Fortunately, the doors were unlocked and the boys entered a compartment.

"Get out of there," shouted a voice.

Pierre followed, as an attendant rushed up.

"We are taking no passengers," he said.

"Hello, Jean," said Pierre.

"And what are you doing here?" said the man.

They grasped hands as the attendant inquired about the boys.

"They are in my charge; come in. This is my cousin, Jacques," remarked Pierre, addressing the boys.

"But where are you going?" asked Jacques.

"Home to join the colors," said Pierre.

"You can go on this train, of course," said Jacques. "Why, you were in Berlin when I last heard of you. As for myself, I came over with the last load of troops from Huy, and if we find the road blocked to Liège we shall stop at Rivage and cross by motor cars to Huy—that is, if such a thing is possible."

The train rushed on for six miles without a stop. Then there was a halt and a long wait at Grand Halleux. Thus, at every telegraph station there was a wait, and it was nearly noon before the train had gone twelve miles.

They were still several miles from the junction, Trois Ponts, the main line of which led northeast to Liège, when the first disquieting rumors were heard by Pierre and the boys. The Germans had cut the direct road to Liège, below Tilft. Jacques appeared at the door of the compartment, and hurriedly said:

"We are trying to reach the main road and go north to Rivage. The trains behind have returned to Bovigny. We may be able to make it before their scouting parties can cross the country."

The junction was reached, and the train continued to the north without stopping.

Five miles north of the junction Ralph was the first to notice a peculiar moving dust cloud a mile or so distant east of the train. He called Pierre's attention to it. A turn in the road gave them a better view of the phenomenon.

"That is a troop of cavalry," said Pierre, in excitement.

Jacques burst in and cried: "The Germans are to head us off. I suppose you and I will have to make a run for it."

"I am sorry for that," said Pierre, looking at the boys. "But you will be safe here. You are Americans, and they will not molest you."

"If you go we will go, too," said Alfred.

Pierre smiled and shook his head, as he replied: "They know we are Belgians, and will suspect we are going to join our regiments. If they capture us we will be sent to Germany. It is different with you. Insist on your right to go to Antwerp."

The train had just passed a small village, Le Gleize, and was slowing down. That was a bad sign, and Jacques eagerly glanced toward Pierre.

"Now is the time," nodded Pierre, as he opened the door and glanced out. For a moment he stood on the running board and suddenly dropped to the side of the roadway, followed by Jacques. The boys watched them as they crossed the ditch and quickly entered a thick copse of brush. Not until they disappeared did the boys recover their shock. The train was now moving along scarcely faster than a walk. The place where Pierre and Jacques concealed themselves was still in sight, when the train halted.

Almost immediately a dozen horsemen rode along the train and finally placed themselves in position. An officer and two soldiers passed through the train, and as they did so, one coach after the other was emptied of its passengers, to the surprise of the boys, who had no idea that there were so many aboard.

The officer opened the door of the compartment occupied by the boys. In a peremptory tone the order was given to vacate, and they were quick to respond. Once outside, several other officers were noticed engaged in rounding up the detrained passengers, and all were finally marched to an open space along the roadway.

The boys explained who they were. One of the officers who spoke English told them that the train had been taken by the Germans and would be sent back.

"But how are we to get to Antwerp?" asked Ralph.

The officer smiled and merely shrugged his shoulders as he passed on. There were thirty passengers, among them seven men, the latter of whom were ordered to remain on the train.

As they were about to obey the order one of the women shrieked and begged them not to take her husband; but the officer paid no attention to her pleadings. Two little children were hanging to her skirts. The husband turned, kissed her affectionately and was about to embrace the children, when one of the guards brutally struck the man in his eagerness to hurry the departure.

"That makes my blood boil," said Alfred, as he grit his teeth.

"And that reminds me you had better keep a close mouth, young man," said a voice behind him.

The boys turned and faced an officer who stared at them menacingly, one hand on the hilt of his sword. For a moment a flush overspread Alfred's face, but he was quick to respond:

"I am an American, sir; and you have no right to dictate to me or to stop my saying what I think."

With a sarcastic smile the officer said: "Then we will teach you to respect the German arms."

"I am glad Pierre and Jacques got away," said Ralph as he stepped forward toward the others.

The officer's face changed in an instant: "Who are Pierre and Jacques?"

Ralph now realized that he had been imprudent. Neither replied to the question, and it was repeated, this time with a threatening gesture.

"So you refuse to answer the question?" said the officer. "Arrest these young men," he said to a corporal. "Take this gentleman to the front," he continued, pointing to Ralph.

Ralph was led off, while Alfred, now greatly alarmed, stood facing the officer.

"Now, then," he said, "for your convenience and comfort it would be better for you to tell me who Pierre and Jacques are?"

"I know nothing about Jacques, as I never saw him until this morning. Pierre was my father's chauffeur," said Alfred.

"Where is he now?" inquired the officer.

"I don't know," said Alfred.

"You are lying to me," quickly responded the officer.

"Then, if you know I am lying you can probably tell me where he is and save some trouble in asking the question," replied Alfred, without intending the reply to be at all disrespectful.

The answer so quickly given somewhat nettled the officer and he turned on his heels to go. Then turning suddenly he inquired:

"When did you last see either of the men?"

"They got off the train when they saw your troops pass around the forest," answered Alfred.

The officer quickly made his way to Ralph. "Where and when did you last see Pierre and Jacques?" he inquired brusquely.

Ralph hesitated a moment before replying.

"Out with it, young man; I have no time for trifling," he continued.

"They got out before the train stopped," said Ralph.

Within a few minutes the train, now in charge of an officer and a half dozen men, was backed down the road toward the junction, while the troopers, at a word of command, mounted their horses and at top speed passed out of sight along the road to the east.

CHAPTER III
THE WRECKED TRAIN

Left in the party by the roadside were two old men, several children, besides the two little toddlers belonging to the woman whose husband was so ruthlessly forced into captivity.

They were fully a mile from the small hamlet which the train had passed through just before they were halted by the Uhlans. By common consent the company decided to walk back.

"Too bad!" said Ralph. "Let's help the woman with the babies."

"Of course," replied Alfred, and he picked up the little fellow, while Ralph held out his arms for the baby. This simple act met with approving remarks. The fact that they had been arrested by the Germans for protesting against a brutal act, was, in itself, a bold thing, and commended them to the passengers.

Before going a quarter of a mile they came in sight of their train. Some of the coaches at the rear end seemed to be out of line. Evidently something was wrong, as the officer and some of the soldiers were at the rear end of the train examining the wreck, for such it was.

The switch had been thrown over and locked, indicating that someone had a hand in the affair, and the officer was furious at the detention, for he knew he must depend on his own exertions to get the train to the junction. The command of which he had been a part, was now miles away; so it was essential that he should clear the track and take back his prisoners.

Alfred drew Ralph aside and whispered: "Who do you think did that?"

Ralph hesitated a moment, then, his eyes opened wide and sparkled: "I'll bet Pierre had a hand in it; and I'll tell you something else, too——" Ralph's sentence remained unfinished, for two shots were fired from a nearby hill. The officer jumped fully five feet and stared about.

One of the soldiers pointed to the hill, but before he could reply two more shots were fired.

Instantly there was confusion. The two guards in the coaches appeared at the doors, and the officer ordered them forward. Evidently they were being attacked, so with a seemingly concerted motion the boys and their fellow passengers moved back toward the road, some of them pointing to the hills.

"There they come!" shouted Alfred in German.

Ralph looked at Alfred in astonishment but the look on Alfred's face was sufficient for him.

The German officer knew he was not in a position to withstand the attack of a foe with the few men under him, and the order was quickly given to withdraw. They passed down to the rear end of the train on a double quick, and instead of following the track as it curved to the right, left the roadbed and ascended a slight elevation beyond the trees that fringed the main wagon road.

On their way a half dozen rifle shots greeted them but did no damage. The prisoners were still in the coaches, but none of them made his appearance, as they had all been bound to the seats. Singularly, no one appeared from the hills to the right to rescue them, although the soldiers had disappeared.

No one seemed to have the least idea what to do. The engineer suggested that he could uncouple the car next to the last wrecked coach and proceed under double speed to Rivage.

"Come on, Alfred, let's go up the hill," shouted Ralph.

That was an inspiration, and without waiting to reply Alfred leaped the hedge and rushed across the field, followed by Ralph, and one of the men. They were half-way across the field before their fellow passengers realized the importance of the boys' actions.

The crest of the hill was reached but no one was in sight. They passed within fifty feet of the spot where they saw the smoke of the guns, and beyond, hidden in the trees was a farmhouse.

"Let's go up there?" said Ralph.

"Hello, boys!" said a suppressed voice. They turned around in astonishment.

"Where are you?" asked Ralph.

"That's Pierre, I'm sure," said Alfred.

"So it is," said Pierre, as he arose from a cozy position behind a rock. "Are any of the soldiers aboard?"

"No, no! they've gone," said Ralph. "Alfred gave them an awful fright."

"How's that?" asked Pierre.

"Why, I yelled out: 'there they come!' and they thought there was a regiment after them."

"Did you block the track?" asked Ralph.

"Jacques did; he has the keys for the switches, you know," said Pierre.

"How did you know that they intended to run the train back?" asked Alfred.

"Well, we suspected they would either do that or destroy the whole train, but here comes Jacques," said Pierre.

When the latter appeared he was accompanied by three men, all armed.

"There are no soldiers aboard; we must run the train to the north as quickly as possible," said Pierre. Then turning to the farmers he said: "I thank you for the service you have rendered us. Follow up the other men and capture the Germans if you can. We must be off at once."

It was the work of a few moments only to uncouple the rear coach and after the passengers were again in their seats the engineer put on full speed, soon passed the spot where they had been held up and within fifteen minutes the train halted in a small town, Guareaux, where the people exhibited the greatest excitement.

"What is the matter?" asked Pierre.

"Germans to the north of us have cut the railway, and taken possession of the junction Trois Ponts below us," replied a voice.

There they were, trapped between two forces and the train was now no longer of any service to them. There was steady firing to the east, indicating that the investment of Liège was under way and the sound of guns was heard in the north. Telegraph and telephone wires had been cut so that no news reached them. Night was close at hand, and every hour meant a closer investment of the place.

"We cannot remain here all night," said Pierre. "The Germans may be on us at any moment. I suggest that we start across the country so as to reach the road which runs from Clavier to Huy. It is not likely that they have surrounded Liège entirely, and by striking the road from Huy we can go east until we reach Jemeppe, and then go north from that point without entering the city."

"Then we can go with you," said Ralph, eagerly.

"Of course," replied Pierre, "but it may be a rough and tiresome journey."

At eight o'clock, just as they were about to leave, a horseman came into town at top speed, with the information that the Uhlans were at Martin River, and rapidly advancing. Jacques and Pierre had been busy acquiring information about the route to Clavier and the villagers were quick to learn the plans of the two men.

Several young men enrolled themselves at once to accompany Pierre and Jacques. Four sturdy fellows had indicated their willingness to go with them but as they were about to leave there was a commotion in the village, and shortly thereafter a horseman dismounted. One of the volunteers who had joined Pierre's band cried out:

"That is Capt. Moreau. I wonder what he is doing here?"

"He lives at Martin River," replied a young man.

"Let us see him at once," said Jacques.

The captain was dressed in civilian's clothes; but he carried a bundle strapped to his back. He was known to all the villagers, and they crowded around him.

"The Germans will be here in less than a half-hour," he said hurriedly. "Every road is blocked, and I want as many volunteers as possible. With them we must cut across the country and reach Liège."

"I am on my way to join the colors," said Pierre, saluting.

"That is the right spirit, my man. But you are, undoubtedly, a stranger here," said the Captain.

"Yes, but I am a Belgian, from Brabant," answered Pierre.

Pierre's prompt action was the signal for an immediate respond from a dozen or more.

"I shall be back in a few minutes, and I designate you to enroll the volunteers," said the Captain, addressing Pierre.

Pierre shouted: "Come on, boys, the King needs you."

The recruits came forward and signed their names. In an incredibly short time the Captain reappeared clothed in his uniform, and he proceeded to business at once.

"Now, men," he said, "without wasting time, get firearms—anything that will shoot, and report to me within ten minutes."

The whole village was now a scene of the greatest activity. A varied assortment of guns and pistols were produced which were hurriedly inspected by the Captain and accepted by him.

"Line up, my men," he ordered. "Belgium is at war with Germany, and our soil has been invaded. It is the duty of every one to assist in this crisis. I shall administer the oath to each of you. This makes our company a fighting force in the King's service and in case of capture entitles you to the treatment accorded to prisoners of war."

Pierre exhibited a troubled look in his face, and Ralph observed it. "I am afraid," he said, "that the Captain will not allow you to accompany us."

This information was the first shock to the boys. Pierre was right. The Captain, while sympathizing greatly, could not be moved. He pointed out that their mission was a dangerous one, and that it would be impossible for them to accompany the squad. The boys were almost heart-broken, but there was no hope for them. The final good-byes were given, and Captain Moreau's little band disappeared in the darkness toward the north.

CHAPTER IV
THE WORK OF A SPY

The feelings of the boys cannot well be described. They did not lack for friends, however, as their fellow passengers were quick to relate the experiences of the boys in their contact with the Germans. Accommodations were offered by the villagers, and they accepted a neat little room over a shop. It was now nearly midnight and they were tired with the excitement and experience of the day.

They were barely settled when the tramp of horses aroused them. Peering out they were surprised to see several dozen Uhlans file by and halt, not far from their window. The people quickly appeared at the doors of their dwellings, many of them half dressed.

"Say, Alfred, they are the same fellows who stopped our train," said Ralph.

"So they are. And there is the officer who told me to shut up," answered Alfred. "Let us get up and dress."

The boys were out in double quick time and cautiously felt their way downstairs.

"Don't go out the front way," said a voice. "Take the back door, pass down the narrow alley and reach the street on the other side."

Thanking their informant they quickly ran down the alley and were about to emerge when two horsemen appeared and finally stopped, less than a dozen feet from the end of the alley.

A man from the adjoining house made a sign and one of the horsemen approached close to the low fence.

"Captain Moreau, with a dozen men left less than an hour ago. They went north in order to reach Clavier."

The informant was a resident of the village, and was, unquestionably a German, as he conversed in that language. He was, thus, spying on his own townsmen. The information was acted upon at once, for in a few moments a detachment was hurriedly sent north.

As the boys were on the point of emerging, a half dozen troopers dashed by and turned the corner, giving them barely time to retreat within the alley. Before reaching the house they were met by their host, the owner of the shop.

"Go back," he whispered. "They have gone upstairs, one of them remarking that they wanted the two Americans. How did they know you were here?"

The boys were now startled, indeed. Who could have informed the Germans, and why should they be so promptly hunted up? The matter evidently puzzled their friend, as well.

Alfred leaned over to the shopkeeper as he eagerly whispered: "Who is your next door neighbor? Is he a German?"

The man recoiled at the question. "Why do you ask?" he quickly responded. The boys informed him of the conversation which they overheard between their neighbor and the Uhlans.

"So that is how he repays our friendship? But where are you going," he asked, as the boys began to move down the alley.

"We must go; we don't want them to find us here," said Alfred.

"But where do you intend to go?" he again asked.

"We want to reach Huy," replied Ralph.

"But there is no railway from here to that place," was the answer.

"We know it," said Alfred. "If Captain Moreau and his men can reach Clavier we ought to be able to make our way there, too."

"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."

"But how?" inquired Ralph, looking about.

It was quite dark within, but they could plainly see the lights of the main street through the vacant space between the houses.

"Let's get up there," suggested Alfred. "Probably we can break away the boards."

Ralph soon found his way to the stringers above and was soon at the crack. They could hear the door of their host's house open and several men stepped out, all of them speaking German. Their host was with them.

"Come up quickly," whispered Ralph. "The old fellow has given us away, sure."

Alfred swung himself into position as the men outside approached.

"I tell you that the young men went out the alley before I went in," said the host.

Ralph nudged Alfred. It was a satisfaction to feel that he was, indeed, a true friend. One of the men ordered the shopkeeper to open the door, which he did after some hesitation. A man stepped to the door, flashed a light and glanced in. It was fortunate that the light did not go high enough to reveal their hiding-place on the stringers above.

The man gave a sigh of relief, as he said: "I told you they left some time ago."

One of the searchers, evidently an officer, then ordered the other to make a complete search through the village for the two boys. After all had disappeared the boys were in a quandary. They were afraid to leave the little house, at least while the search was going on, so after consideration they decided to remain until their friend should reappear, for they were now satisfied that he would help them out of their dilemma.

They kept their seats on the stringers for fully an hour, but it was getting to be tiresome, although they were afraid to venture down. As they had about made up their minds to venture out, voices were heard. They came closer and soon it was easy to recognize the voice of the neighbor who had acted the part of the spy two hours before.

The strange voice greeted the neighbor and imparted the information that the squad which had gone to the north had just returned.

"Did you get them?" he asked.

"Yes; we captured all but two of them," was the reply.

"Too bad," whispered Ralph.

"I wonder what time it is?" said Alfred. "Hold up your watch to the crack and see if you can make it out."

"My, it's almost four o'clock. It will be daylight in another hour. If we are to go we had better start at once. What do you say?"

"Well, it won't do to be cooped up here a whole day; let us try it," said Alfred as he swung himself down and moved toward the door.

They peered out. The coast was clear. Before they had an opportunity to reach the alley the door of the house opened and their host appeared with a package.

"So you are about to go? I am glad you did not go sooner. I waited until the fellows outside settled down. Here is the package I made up for you. It will come in handy," he said as he handed it to them.

"We thank you ever so much for your kindness," said Ralph. "We suspected you, when you went out and bolted the door."

"I did that purposely," replied the host. "I thought maybe that if those fellows got to searching out here and they found the door bolted on the outside they wouldn't take the trouble to look inside."

"We are glad you thought of that," said Alfred. "But we must ask another favor of you. Tell us which way to go to reach Clavier?"

"Indeed, I will. Go north until you reach a stream, which is a half kilometer distant. Then follow that; but be careful when you come to the bridges," he replied.

"Is it true that they have captured Capt. Moreau and the boys with him?" asked Alfred.

"No! When did you hear that?" said the host in surprise.

"We overheard a German tell your next-door neighbor about it," answered Ralph.

"It can't be possible," responded the man in amazement. "But you must not waste time. We are sorry to have you go but I can understand."

"Thank you again," said Alfred. "Good-bye."

"Adieu," responded their host.

They quickly reached the end of the alley and hastily glanced out. There was no one in sight, and Ralph, who was ahead, beckoned Alfred to follow. They crossed the street and leaped the fence, then cut across the lot until they reached the road which their late host had suggested.

The sound of horses' hoofs coming from the main street of the town caused both to stop dead still.

"To the fence, Alfred," whispered Ralph, as the horsemen turned the corner.

"Crouch down low and keep quiet," said Alfred.

The Uhlans, for so they were, passed without halting, and the boys breathed a sigh of relief. But what were they going to the north for at this time of the morning? It was over the very route that they intended to take.

"What shall we do now?" asked Ralph.

"Follow them, by all means," replied Alfred.

"Do you think so?" queried Ralph, doubtfully.

"Of course, that would be the better way to throw them off the track," answered Alfred.

Acting on this advice, they promptly set out on the march, determined to make the best use of the darkness.

It did not take them long to reach the stream referred to by their late friend. The bridge was in sight, and they stopped, for they felt there was a problem of great importance to solve, and that was, whether or not to cross it and follow the stream on the other side.

"Let's go over, by all means, if we have a chance, as we'll have to do so sooner or later," said Alfred.

"Do you think so?" asked Ralph.

"Of course; Clavier is on the other side; I know that," said Alfred.

"Then come on; watch the road both ways," suggested Ralph.

They reached the bridge and ran across with all their might. They had not forgotten the warning given by the shopkeeper. Once across they turned to the left, and crossed the hedge which bordered the roadway. Keeping within the protection of the brush close to the stream they kept up a lively pace. It was now beginning to lighten up, the gray horizon in the east betokened the arrival of the sun.

Still they felt that they could keep on for a half-hour more, but before they had trudged along more than fifteen minutes another bridge appeared in sight, and almost at the same instant the dust on the road to the north showed some unusual activity which served as a warning.

Concealing themselves behind a convenient bush they awaited the arrival of the horsemen who could now be plainly seen. The four troopers who passed them at the outskirts of the town, were returning, an evidence to the minds of the boys that they were the objects of the search. The troopers crossed the bridge and followed up the stream, bringing them close to their hiding-place.

"Wasn't it a good thing we crossed the bridge?" observed Alfred, as the party passed by.

"Now, shall we go on?" asked Ralph.

"I don't know what to do," answered Alfred. "What do you say?"

"Why, go on, of course; we can't stay here," remarked Ralph.

"We ought to have found a place to stay before this; I think we made a mistake; don't you?" said Alfred.

"I think so; but perhaps we can find a good place further on," suggested Ralph.

It was evident that some place of concealment had to be found, so cautiously approaching the bridge they crossed the road and were delighted to observe a narrow piece of woodland which seemed to offer some security to them for the day; so they crossed a stone fence, still keeping the river in sight, and entered the grove.

It may be well to observe that Belgium is a very thickly settled country and they were in the province of Liège, which has a much denser population than any other section in Belgium. During the flight of the boys from the little town of Guareaux, farmhouses were visible at all times in one direction or the other.

They hurried through the wood, and were about to climb the fence which divided it from an open space, when the barking of a dog arrested them. Almost immediately a voice called to them:

"Who are you?"

Neither of the boys saw the inquirer, but a little cabin was plainly visible to the left. They remained silent, and by this time the dog was at the opposite side of the fence barking vigorously. It would have been imprudent not to recognize the call, now that the dog had pointed them out. Alfred was the first to recover himself, as he answered:

"We are American boys, on our way to Clavier."

The man approached along the opposite side of the fence and drove the dog away.

"American boys? and what are you doing here?" he asked in astonishment.

Ralph looked at Alfred for a moment before answering: "We had an experience with the Germans yesterday and are trying to get away from them."

The face of the man brightened up, and he rushed up to them, holding out his hands.

"You are welcome here; I will assist you," he said.

"Thank you for the offer," said Alfred.

"A half dozen of the German troopers have just passed along the road to the west going north," said the man. "It seems as though the country hereabouts is full of them."

"They are after the men who left town last night to join the colors. Captain Moreau was with them, but we are afraid they captured him," said Ralph.

"Ah, the Captain with his men passed here last night, and I saw him. My son is with him. If that is true he may be taken also," said the man in a very sorrowful tone.

"One of the men with the Captain is our friend. They would not let us go with them, so we determined to make our way across before the Germans get too far," said Alfred.

"I am afraid you will have trouble in trying to reach Clavier. I advise you to avoid that place and try to reach the main line that runs east from Huy, as the Germans will try to reach Clavier. The railroad touches that point from the west, and then runs north to Huy," said their informant.

"Then would you advise us to keep on going during the day time?" asked Alfred.

"You would be safe, if you avoid the roads and bridges," said the man. "But you must have something to eat before you leave; so come in and we will make you comfortable."

The invitation was accepted with profuse thanks. Within the cottage they found the mistress and two children, one of them a boy of their own age. The situation was explained, and the boys became objects of interest at once, when they related their experiences on the train and in the town.

After breakfast the man said: "Henri, my son, you know the way to Borlon. You may accompany them and show them the way; but mind you, care must be taken at the roads and bridges."

The boys were delighted at this kind offer. Henri smiled as he was thus delegated to make the trip. It was too good to be true. When all were ready the mother kissed her boy and accompanied by the father they passed out the door. Not three hundred feet distant was a main road, and leaping the hedge on both sides of the gate were fully a dozen of the Uhlans.

"Back! back!" said the man.

The boys darted into the house, while the man said in an undertone: "Henri, take the boys down to the pit. Don't stop for anything."

Henri motioned to them, and they rushed out the back door, passed through a narrow arbor way, dashed through a gate and followed along side the fence which ran toward the river. They almost rolled down the steep incline to the water's edge in their eagerness to get away.

"This way," said Henri.

He led them along the incline for several hundred feet, and finally stopped at the entrance of what appeared to be a cave.

"This is an old ore pit," said Henri. "I don't think they will find you here. I'll go back and see what they are doing."

So saying he slipped down the bank, and hurriedly passed out of sight. They remained in the pit for nearly an hour, and a feeling of uneasiness crept over them. Ralph cautiously crept out and peered over the top of the hill. He was just in time to see the troops file out of the yard.

Before they had disappeared down the road Henri rushed out of the house and made his way to the pit.

"Come on, boys; they have gone," he shouted.

As the boys crept up the hill and met Henri, they learned that the Germans had compelled their friends to prepare breakfast for them, which accounted for the long delay.

CHAPTER V
THE STRUGGLE THROUGH THE COUNTRY

It was fully nine o'clock before they left Mr. Revigne's place, for such was his name. He was one of the prosperous small farmers of that section, and he and his sons knew every foot of the country for miles. Henri was a bright, intelligent fellow, and his brother, who had joined the Captain's band, was a reservist.

They went across fields, keeping the stream in sight, and they had not gone far before the boys learned to repose the greatest confidence in their new companion. After passing two well-travelled roads, they approached a third, which Henri informed them was the main road to Rivage east of their location.

"It wouldn't be much of a trick for those fellows to cut across from Martin River, so we must be very careful now," said Henri.

There was but a single field to cross, and Henri advised the boys to keep out of sight while he went forward to examine the road. In a few moments he returned with the information that the road was clear, and both boys bounded forward and made a run for the fences. As ill luck would have it a troop appeared on the highway to their right, before they reached the fence. Henri stopped.

"Wait," he said. "Line up by the side of me, so you will be hidden beside me; then let us all walk together to the fence."

In that manner they reached the moss-grown stone barrier, so well known in many parts of the country.

"Drop down now, and keep out of sight," said Henri.

So saying he mounted the fence and crossed over. The horsemen beyond were now hurrying down the road. He mounted the fence on the other side, and awaited their approach. An officer in front halted and inquired, in German, if Henri had seen any people on the road.

Henri shook his head slowly, to indicate that he did not understand them. The question was repeated in French, and he responded that no one had gone by since he came on the road. The troopers proceeded without further questions, and when they were well out of sight the boys arose, crossed over, and made up for lost time in the effort to cross the adjacent field.

"A friend of my father's lives in that house," said Henri, pointing ahead. "We might stop there and learn if there is any news."

The owner of the house was greatly surprised at the appearance of Henri and the boys. He was told their story, and he smiled at them proudly. "And where are you going now?" he asked.

"Father asked me to take the boys over to Borlon's. They want to go to Clavier, as they are on the way to Antwerp," said Henri.

"Then I have bad news for you; the Germans are well above the road leading to Rivage. You must avoid Borlon, and you cannot go to Clavier, as they are trying to cut the road between Clavier and Huy," said the man.

"Then what would you advise us to do?" asked Alfred.

"Go to the north of Borlon, and make straight for the road that runs from Huy to Liège," was the reply.

"Then we shall have to leave you," said Ralph, sorrowfully.

"No, no; I will stay with you all day, and leave you to-morrow some time," said Henri.

"Now, my boy, go straight across to Ladeau's place and get something to eat there; you know where that is," said the man, addressing Henri.

"Indeed, I do; and he will tell us the best way from that place," said Henri.

Notwithstanding the gravity of their journey, the trip of the three boys was fascinating. Henri steered a course directly to the east, but it was tiring work, as constant vigilance was necessary. Night set in too soon for them, but the moon lighted the way for an hour before they reached Ladeau's place.

There they learned some bad news. Information had reached Mr. Ladeau that Capt. Moreau and his companions had been captured, or, at least, there was a fight with a superior force.

"We heard they were captured," said Ralph.

"That is quite possible," remarked Mr. Ladeau, sadly. "Just before you came we learned that the Germans had taken possession of the road to the north, and it is likely that a visit may be expected from them at any moment."

"Then we must go at once," said Alfred, "and if you will direct us which way to travel we will go on without Henri, as it would be wrong to take him further from home."

Henri protested, but the boys both agreed that it would be the proper course for him to return, and Mr. Ladeau concurred in their view of it. The parting was a hurried one, and they at once struck across the fields, taking good care to keep one particularly bright star directly in front of them.

Thus, for two hours, they met with no incident until they approached a road, when they heard voices speaking in German. Silently approaching the fence they waited until the sound died away, then rushed across the road and entered an orchard with tempting fruit all about them.

"Well, it is about the only thing you can do," said a voice in French.

This was, assuredly, a relief to the boys, as they saw two men descend from a tree.

"What were you doing in the tree?" asked Alfred.

"We heard you long before you came up to the tree," said the tall one, "and we supposed you might be the Germans, until we came near enough so we could distinguish your language."

"Hereafter," remarked Ralph, "we shall be more careful." The boys related their experiences, and the fact that they had been captives, and the troubles they went through since their release.

"While it might be possible for you boys to travel during the daytime, it would not be so for us, and it is equally dangerous, in view of the orders sent out in the printed notices, for all of us to travel at night. We must, however, get away from this section as soon as possible, so we might as well go on."

All villages were avoided and they passed by the farmhouses as though they suspected a pestilence. It was a trying, weary night as they were frequently compelled to wait while one scouted ahead. In the early morning their tall companion announced that they were nearing the town of Esneux.

CHAPTER VI
ON THE ROAD TO LIÈGE

They were now less than six miles from the Meuse, the country was growing rough, and the hills, on the banks of the little stream which flowed to the north, were rugged, like all this section bordering on the river.

They must either avoid the town by going to the right, or cross the river, the latter a hazardous undertaking in daytime, if there were any Germans in that section. They well knew that if the enveloping movement had extended up as far as Tilff, the town, in all probability, would be occupied by the enemy.

Gascon, the tall companion, would not consider the attempt to cross the river. "Let us go to the left, and attempt to cross on the other side of the town."

Their other companion took up the duty of scout, walking along the ridge of the hill, above the stream, while the others followed in the little valley below. In the next hour they were west of the town, and approached the road which led from Huy.

The morning light plainly showed that this road was also patrolled by the Uhlans, but to cross it was their only hope. Otherwise, it would mean an entire day lurking in some hiding-place.

It was a painful experience, to crawl along the low hedge that ran up to the highway, for it was now early morn, and light enough so that cavalry could be seen in the screen formed by the trees along the road.

Gascon knew what scouting meant, and he gave them a word of caution. "We must not go along the hedge together. We should be separated at least ten meters apart" (a little over 30 feet), "and the movement must be made without any noise."

He then threw himself on the ground and showed them how to crawl. "Just watch me for a moment and you will learn an easy way to do it."

Gascon stretched himself full length on his face, lying partly on his left side. "Now," he said, "draw up the right leg, and stretch the right arm upward past your head. If you will now turn your body over to the right, or, in other words, roll yourself over on the right arm and leg, the left foot can be used to propel yourself forward, without appreciably raising the body."

The boys remembered the terribly trying act of crawling on the first day of their experience, and this exhibition was a most gratifying thing to them, now that there was more of it to do.

"Where did you learn how to do this?" asked Ralph.

German 42-Centimetre Gun.

"This is part of the drill in the army. This creeping movement is characteristic of the North American Indian, and is also practised by some of the African tribes."

Gascon now started on his peculiar movement along the fence followed by Joseph, their other companion, and then Ralph, observing the proper interval, followed and after him came Alfred.

Early as it was there were sounds of activity that did not arise from the ordinary farming operations. The roads here, as everywhere throughout Belgium, were found at frequent intervals in their pathway, and while they must avoid them, it was also necessary that they should cross them.

Another characteristic of Belgian roads is, that they are, usually, lined with trees, and the hedges afforded ample protection for lurking enemies, while, at the same time, it served to hide their movements.

As the first streaks of the morning sun began to show over the landscape, the party came to a halt for the purpose of considering their further movements. Suddenly, it seemed as though the ground moved upwardly, as a terrific crash burst on their ears.

Not a word was spoken by anyone for a minute, and Ralph's voice, when he spoke, was gruff and unnatural. "What can that be?" he asked, as he turned to their leader.

"That is a heavy field piece—there, you can see the smoke. It is mounted on the hill directly in front of us. Lucky for us that we did not cross the field," answered Gascon.

"We are in a trap," said Alfred.

Gascon smiled. "Yes, if they have advanced beyond the battery we shall have to wait until night, because it would be unsafe to cross the Meuse in their rear."

A boom from the east, followed by another, and still another, was sufficient notice to them that the great forts at Liège were answering the challenge. They burrowed into the hedge, and made enclosures with bushes and leaves. Meantime, the battery on the hill opened fire with its three guns, and soon the surrounding atmosphere grew misty, and they could smell an unmistakable odor of burning powder.

Soon another battery, farther to their right, began to fire. "How fortunate we did not get any further than this," said Gascon.

"Why?" asked Alfred, in astonishment.

"Because we should have run into another battery and encampment to the rear of this."

They were hardly settled in the temporary shelter, when they heard a peculiar hissing sound, and immediately felt, a peculiar shock as of a falling body, followed by an explosion of a huge shell which threw dirt and sand over them. This was really more terrifying to the boys than their experience at the mouth of the mine on the first day of their wanderings.

"That must have been awful close," said Alfred, with a perceptible tremor in his voice.

"It was fully fifty metres (163 feet) beyond us. That was, probably, an eight-inch shell, and if it had come within ten meters, (about 32 feet), of the battery the latter would have been put out of action."

Within the next half-hour a dozen or more shells burst within five hundred feet, more or less, of their position. It was evident that the forts south of the river were trying to get the range of the battery which had thrown the challenge which the boys witnessed.

It was their first actual experience in war. They had seen the soldiers, and the trappings, but now the actual conflict was before them. It was fascinating, but it was also dangerous. Did they stop to talk over things connected with their homes and their friends? They doubtless thought of them, but they knew they must think of something more important than distant things. They must meet the actual realities at hand.

For two hours they lay thus, and watched the entrancing sight of the guns on the hill, firing at regular intervals, and noted the bursting of the great shells from the forts, speculating where the next one would strike. They became reckless now. The boys were both trembling when the first shells began to come, but now they had a different feeling. At first they had a vague idea that there was some safety in the bushes, and lay there concealed, but now very strangely each bursting shell made them less anxious and subdued their curiosity.

They crawled from the shelter, and moved into the opening. Gascon and his companion had been thus exposed for some time. They now had little fear of the troops. The air was filled with smoke, as a slight breeze blew toward them from the battery.

Gascon turned to the boys, noted their composure, and said: "We think it would be well for us to make a start."

This information was a welcome one, you may be sure, for it was better than waiting to be shot at.

Hardly had the boys turned toward the hedge, when a peculiar explosion was heard. It was like a combination of explosions, and Gascon ran out into the field, swinging his hat.

"What is the matter?" asked Ralph, excitedly.

Gascon waved his arms and smiled, but was silent for a time.

He pointed to the hill. "That will settle those fellows for some time," he said, turning toward them. The boys looked toward the hill and saw that it was giving up an immense cloud of the densest smoke.

"They have hit the battery," said Alfred, in intense excitement.

"But what makes all that smoke?" asked Ralph.

"Ah!" said Gascon, with a broad grin, "they have struck the caisson and exploded the ammunition."

Without waiting for more information, the party rapidly ran along the hedge to the north, but before they had crossed half-way to the hedge which formed the enclosure for the field along the roadway, a troop of horsemen appeared in the road to their left, and rode furiously toward the hill.

The atmosphere was a dusky gray but unlike a haze it was much more dense and heavy. The heavy shells from the fort came at regular intervals. The moment the horsemen passed, Gascon held up his hand as a signal to go forward, and they soon reached the road. He was the first through the brush, and crawling out across the road, gave a peculiar whistle to indicate safety, and the boys followed, crouching as low as possible, Ralph following Alfred, after an interval, as they had been instructed. Their companion was the last to cross.

When Alfred reached the other side, he saw Gascon fully a hundred feet away. The battery on the hill had ceased, but the one beyond was still keeping up its regular shots.

"I believe we are forward of the most advanced batteries," said Gascon, "and if such should turn out to be the case we will have little trouble in reaching our lines."

The misty condition of the atmosphere was most fortunate for the boys and their companions, but it also frequently brought them close up to the patrols, which were constantly in their path. Thus by careful manœuvring they found themselves approaching an elevation which Gascon estimated to be ten miles west of Liège.

The ascent was slow, as they crept most of the way, to avoid any sentries who might be in that locality. Up to this time they had found the inevitable Uhlans in their way wherever they went.

Gascon, who was in the lead, held up a warning hand as they reached the summit, where, spread before them, was a great panorama. To the east, and less than a mile away, was a much higher hill, that dominated the position in which they found themselves, and there they discovered a battery, also in action.

Directly before them was the winding Meuse. A little to the right, and probably a mile and a quarter away, was a little town, and to the left, four miles distant, was Huy, a town of about 4,000 inhabitants, also on the northern bank of the stream.

The railway, from Liège to Huy, was at the foot of the hill, winding its way along, and below the great hill to the east, was discernible, a German encampment, which supported the battery on the hill.

The frowning forts around Liège were distinctly visible, because their great guns were now in action. The sounds which reached them were like the continual reverberations of thunder, only sharper and punctuated by the occasional heavy discharges. Above every fort floated a Belgian flag.

The boys looked at Gascon, whose countenance portrayed anxiety, which they noticed for the first time in his demeanor.

"Do you think we shall be able to cross the river?" asked Alfred.

"We can find means to do that, if we are able to reach it. The trouble will be to get there, and we cannot possibly do that during the day."

"Do you see any of the Germans near the stream?"

"No, but they have plenty of places to conceal themselves. It is clear that we must avoid the railroad."

"Why not move to the right?" said Alfred. "That is the most direct way to the city."

Gascon did not reply, but in a few minutes, he began to descend to the west, and all followed him at a distance. The valley was reached after passing by a dozen or more cottages, all of which were unoccupied.

"The empty houses make it look bad to me," was Gascon's observation, as they were moving from the last one. "The Germans have been here, that is——"

His remarks were cut short, as he dropped to the earth and made a signal. They were astounded to find that a company of horsemen occupied the orchard to the west of the house. This made a hurried retreat necessary and they passed to the east, skirting the hill formerly occupied.

They commenced to feel the pangs of hunger. Fruit had been the morning meal, and of this they had found plenty; but something else was needed. Gascon spoke to his companion, and after selecting a secluded spot, the latter moved forward, and crouching along the hedges was soon beyond their view.

"Joseph will forage for us," said Gascon. "It is better for one to do this than for all of us to join in the hunt."

They waited for more than a half-hour, without a sign of Joseph, and Gascon now made frequent trips to the nearby road, but returned each time without tidings.

The last time he came back with the cheerful intelligence that Joseph was returning. But alas! for their expectations! Two shots in the neighborhood of their returning friend, caused Gascon and the boys to leap to their feet. Beyond the second field they saw Joseph running from a half-dozen troopers who were leaping the fences in pursuit.

Joseph saw that escape was useless, and turned toward his pursuers. Evidently, he had not been hit by the shots. An officer galloped up to him, and he exposed the contents of his bundle.

"They will suspect that Joseph is getting food for companions and we will have to depend on our wits to escape capture," said Gascon.

They were evidently questioning the captive. Joseph was shrewd enough to endeavor to effect his escape by running to the east, instead of going to the south, where his companions were.

"Do you think that is why he ran in the direction he did?" asked Ralph.

"Undoubtedly," replied Gascon. "Now that they are trying to learn where we are, let us move to the north and east, as fast as we can."

"But," said Alfred, "that will take us right into the German lines."

"Quite true, but that will be better than attempting to go forward."

It was but the work of a moment to crawl through the hedge, and move down the hill, making their way as fast as possible toward an orchard, through which they passed, emerging at a small vineyard which afforded them shelter. They hurriedly passed through the rows of vines, and soon approached a small farmhouse.

"I will investigate; stay here until you hear from me. If everything is clear I will appear at the side of the building to the right of the elm trees."

The boys nestled close to the bushy vines, occasionally standing up to see whether Gascon was in sight. Within fifteen minutes they were delighted to see the form of Gascon, and hearing the welcome signal, rejoined him.

The Germans had not disturbed this house, which was accounted for by the fact that the homestead was quite a distance from the main road. The owner of the place had, however, heard all the news up to the preceeding day, and this was what the boys were interested in.

"Liège is being surrounded," he said. "It would be almost impossible to make your way through, though it might be done by taking a route which would enable you to approach the city from the north."

"I must get back to my regiment," said Gascon. "So if you will permit me to remain here until night, I will attempt the journey."

"We know it is the right thing for you to try to reach your command. We do not wish to hamper you, but we will follow you during the night. Never fear, we shall find a way to get home," said Ralph.

CHAPTER VII
A THRILLING FLIGHT

"You must be hungry," said the kindly old man. The boys had not forgotten that they wanted something to eat, and Gascon smiled as he told the farmer that they had nothing but fruit during the entire day.

The farmer's wife had already made preparations for the evening meal, as it was now nearing six in the afternoon. The boys followed her every movement and when the meal was ready they both ate to the delight of the woman. As she looked at them, her eyes frequently filled with tears.

"Two of our boys are now at Liège. One of them is an officer in Fort V. Flerion," she said.

"Maybe we saw some of the shells which he has been throwing at the Germans," said Alfred, enthusiastically.

"Undoubtedly you saw some of them when you were down near the great forest," said Gascon, "but we are too far west now for the guns from that fort."

"I hope," said the woman, "that this trouble will not be for long. But our boys must serve our country, even though all of us suffer for it."

After the meal, the boys were surprised to see the door leading to the kitchen, quietly open, and two young men entered. The father introduced the two, one of them being his son, and the other a neighbor. They then learned that the two formed part of a guard for the neighborhood, and that they had come in for the evening meal, while others kept guard in the meantime.

"Roland had an experience this afternoon," said the elder. "While passing down the orchard lane we heard two shots on the Thierry farm. He went forward to reconnoiter and ran into a troop of Uhlans who were escorting a prisoner whom they had taken in the field beyond."

The boys looked at each other. "Did he have on a red-bordered jacket?" eagerly asked Alfred.

"Yes," answered Roland. "How did you know?" he inquired.

"That was Joseph!" exclaimed Ralph.

"The trouble was that they came very near catching me, also," said Roland, with a twinkle, "as they were after me when they spied the man. I was ahead of Paul, after we passed through the lane, and when I crossed the road, they discovered me and gave chase. As I passed through the wheat field I had a good chance to hide, but the troopers came on and leaped over the fence only to catch sight of the stranger."

"So my friend saved you," said Gascon. "Well, I suppose that is what this war does. It does not respect anyone. You must suffer for what I do. In war nothing is right but might."

"We have been attacked," responded Roland, "and our only course is to fight. I am sorry I waited so long before going to the city. Belgium needs all of us, so to-night we must start, Mother."

The boys looked on Roland in admiration. He was about twenty-four years of age, straight, tall and handsome-featured, the youngest of the family.

The mother did not reply, but she silently gathered up her apron and wiped the moisture from her eyes. She did not object, but quietly said: "Tell your brothers not to worry about us, but do let us hear from you often."

How often that same injunction goes forth from a mother's heart. "Don't forget to write!" Once in a slum lodging house which was established for wanderers, a tablet was placed over the door, on which was inscribed, in large letters the words:

"WHEN DID YOU WRITE THE LAST LETTER TO MOTHER?"

Shortly after nine o'clock, Gascon, together with Roland, and two others, prepared to start for the Belgian lines. It was a sad parting, and it may be said to the credit of the mother that she bore her part well, and inspired those about her to act bravely.

The old man gave the boys careful instructions, as to the surrounding country. "My advice is that you go directly northwest for at least three miles, and that will bring you behind the German firing line. None of their batteries is so far west as that, but you must remember that the German forces are rapidly coming north from Verviers, and while they are mostly following the railroads, are, nevertheless, taking advantage of all the roads from Bleiburn and Eupen."

"But isn't it safer for us to travel at night than in the daytime?" asked Alfred.

"It is not safe at any time, my boy. The notices say you must be indoors after seven o 'clock. So by traveling at night you are violating one of the orders. On the other hand, if you travel in the daytime, you may be easily detected."

"But why should they object to people being out at night?" asked Ralph.

"Because they are in an enemy's country, and they know that as the inhabitants are acquainted with every section, they would be able to spread information, and offer great obstructions, if allowed their freedom."

The stern necessities of war were thus gradually instilled in their minds. They saw the peril of their enterprise, and it may be said to the credit of the boys that they determined to risk the journey. Unquestionably, the country through which they were now to go was more perilous for them than the trip from Quareaux.

Shortly after ten o'clock the boys decided on leaving. The mother handed them two packages neatly done up. "Here is some luncheon for you. You will need it before you reach Liège," she said.

They were greatly touched at this material evidence of good will, and Alfred grasping her by the hand tried to thank her. Like a true mother, she put her arms around the boys, and said:

"God bless you both, and may you soon see your parents. Good-by!"

They moved toward the door, and passed out, with downcast eyes, afraid to utter another word, so strong were their feelings. They now realized that they were alone in a strange section of the country, and that the route was beset by perils. Somehow the terror of the situation had passed from them. Less than a week ago they were carefree boys, who had no great responsibilities, and who had never experienced the trials of life.

For the past two days they had violated the laws imposed on the community by the invaders; they knew the penalty was death. They had been hunted and pursued; had learned how to evade the searchers; how to crawl by stealth from one field to the next; how to cross a patrolled highway, and the precautions that must be taken to approach houses. Do you not wonder that boys under such conditions might well be pardoned for feeling faint and weakened in their determination to go on?

Ralph was the first to recover. "How noble those people are. I love them for the care and attention they gave us, and I hope we may be able to repay them some day."

"Yes," answered Alfred. "But it made me happy to see the way Roland left his mother. He is a brave fellow, and I hope he will be able to work his way through the lines."

"But here we are. We must not waste time. We had but little sleep last night, and must go as far as we can to-night. Didn't that bath feel good?" remarked Ralph.

They hugged the precious packages which had been given them, and moved to the east along the hedge row as suggested by the farmer.

"He said we should go east until we crossed the second stream, and then follow it down to the Meuse. We ought to be able to remember that," said Alfred, as they quietly walked along side by side.

"There is the road now," interposed Ralph. "Everything appears to be quiet. Let us go on carefully, and cross over."

This was accomplished without accident. It was now fully eleven o'clock, and it must not be imagined that there was quiet all about them. In the distance were sounds of the movement of horses, the clang of metal and the rumbling of wheels, even at this late hour.

Indeed, they had hardly passed the highway, when a train of vehicles came along. All these things became familiar to them, just as noises and sounds will become dull to the ear through frequent and constant repetition.

They talked but little, and moved across the next field with considerable speed. A field of barley was reached, and soon passed, then an orchard, and the inevitable vineyard. A house, or other building, would suddenly loom up, and then a new direction would have to be taken.

"What bothers me most is to get the right direction again after we circle about the houses," said Alfred.

"Yes, I forgot to look at the Great Dipper, so as to locate the North Star. Do you remember, Alfred, how grandfather instructed us to find the true north?" asked Ralph.

"I am afraid I would not be able to explain it," answered Alfred.

"Well, look at the two stars opposite the handle. A line run out from those two stars always points to the North Polar star," replied Ralph.

"I remember now," answered Alfred; "there it is, that bright star. Well, I shall try it the next time we are forced to go around a building."

For the benefit of the reader, a sketch is given of the dipper, and the relative position of Polaris, the great North Star. The dotted line A, which runs through the two stars Dubhe and Merak, also passes through Polaris.

Progress was slow owing to these detours, and when the first stream was reached the boys were glad to bathe their faces, then they sat down to rest. Where the stream was crossed appeared to be a secluded spot, and the silence was such that it was almost oppressive to them.

Suddenly a great bell rang out in the distance, and the boys counted the strokes. It was twelve o'clock, and they heard the bell of a great château, eight miles west of Liège.

This startled them more than the reverberations of the great guns.

"We can now keep track of the time exactly," said Alfred.

"Unless we hear too many other noises," answered Ralph.

Using the Great Dipper to Find the True North

The tramp was again taken up. They began to grow tired now but they had gone in a direct line from the farmer's house, not to exceed a mile and a half, though in winding their ways around the houses they must have traveled twice that distance. Moreover, every step of the way was one of anxiety, which is more wearing than the bodily exertion.

Over fields, some of them newly-plowed; along hedges and fences, walking between rows of vegetables; through orchards; crawling over obstructions; ever alert to note and weigh each new or unfamiliar noise; these were the strenuous times through which our heroes were compelled to go in their wanderings. No wonder they grew tired.

"Are we going down hill?" inquired Ralph.

"Undoubtedly," said Alfred. "I hope we shall soon reach the second stream."

Ralph's hope was realized. The stream was near at hand, flowing directly north.

"We must follow this," whispered Alfred.

"Why not have something to eat?" said Ralph. "I am awfully hungry." Alfred needed no urging. Selecting a sheltered position under an overhanging bank, they sat down, and carefully opened one of the packages. They were surprised to find not only substantials there but real dainties.

"Oh, but this is good," remarked Ralph.

"I thought——"

But Alfred's sentence was cut short by a sudden commotion to their right, followed by a gruff order in German. Soon the sounds of galloping horses were heard, and a number stopped not three hundred feet away.

They did not move. Some altercation or explanation took place, the nature of which was not explainable at that time.

"I believe the road runs along there and crosses the creek where the troops are," suggested Alfred.

"I wonder what they are stopping for?"

A new order was given, and the command moved on to the west. In another instant two figures faintly appeared close to the stream, at a bend below them. They came on, directly toward them. The boys grasped each others hands. The figures were now only ten feet away, and the boys then saw that they were not enemies but friends.

"Don't be afraid of us," said Ralph, rising.

The men, thus suddenly arrested, started back, but quickly recovering inquired who they were.

"We are trying to get to Antwerp," said Alfred, "if the Germans will let us."

"Well, we are trying to get away from home, and they don't want us to do even that," said one of the men.

"Were they after you?" inquired Alfred.

"Yes, for the last hour."

"Is that a road beyond?" asked Ralph.

"That is the main road leading to Vise."

"We should have struck the creek considerably south of the road," said Alfred.

"It is fortunate that you did not reach it on the other side, because every foot of the road is patrolled. That is what caused us the trouble during the last hour,—trying to get across."

"But we made a run for it at last, and that is what caused the rumpus. If they know we are on this side they will surely follow along the stream, so we had better move up toward the Meuse, as fast as possible."

One of the men now went ahead, the others following at a distance which enabled them to barely make out the advancing form. As they advanced the valley of the stream grew narrower and more rugged.

The man with the boys turned to them and said: "We are now less than a half mile from the Meuse. The railway track ahead will be the most dangerous part of our journey."

As he spoke they saw one of the telegraph poles through the darkness and the leader in advance halted. There was silence for some time. Soon he returned with the information that a body of troops were quartered at the small station beyond, and that the utmost vigilance was necessary.

Stealthily making their way along the hedge row at one side, the railway line was reached. As a precautionary measure the men searched the track in both directions, and returned with the information that the line was clear. Creeping as low as possible the four made their way across, just as an approaching train, filled with troops from the east, began to slow down.

The rear end of the train stopped within two hundred feet of the crossing place, and a number of the soldiers stepped from the train, while lanterns, in abundance, were seen all along the train.

"Don't let us waste time. The arrival of the train will give them something to think about while we make tracks for the river."

All precaution was now thrown to the winds. They actually scrambled along the ground, and over the rough limestone formation. Huge oak trees sprang up all along their pathway. This section is noted for the size and beauty of these trees. They now afforded fine hiding places.

"We must go to the left, and try the bridge," said the elder of the two.

This announcement was very welcome to the boys. Somehow, they felt that if they could once cross the river they would be safe from pursuit. To cross the stream otherwise would require a boat, or necessitate swimming.

"Are you sure there is a bridge near here?" asked Ralph, somewhat doubtfully.

"Yes."

Beyond the Meuse. How the boys enjoyed the sight.

"Now for the bridge," said the leader.

Keeping fully a hundred feet from the bank of the stream they marched to the west, without incident, until they had gone fully a quarter of a mile. Then, something moved in front of them. They quietly listened, for it was certain some one was approaching. Not a word was spoken.

Beyond question men were approaching. Quiet mumblings were heard from the approaching party.

The elder, in a suppressed breath, cried out "ami," meaning friend, and the noise instantly ceased. There was no response, however. The word was repeated. Soon the answer came: "Belguique."

CHAPTER VIII
THEY REACH THE BELGIAN FORCES

There was a movement in their front, and soon forms were outlined. One appeared after the other, until seven men ranged alongside. Almost the first to appear was Roland, who had left them the evening before, and two of his associates.

Roland laughed, as he greeted the boys. Most of the men knew each other, as they were all from the same commune.

"Where are you going?" asked Roland.

"To the bridge," answered their companion.

"Too late," responded Roland. "An advance guard, with two machine guns, reached there less than an hour ago, and has taken possession."

"That means that the Germans are on the other side, as well?" asked one of the men.

"We do not know about that. They could easily come up from Tieff, and from that point cross over."

"Fortunately," said Roland, "our troops are arriving from St. Trond and Tongress, to reinforce the garrison."

"Then we may be able to reach the soldiers," said Alfred.

"Yes, unless the Germans are ahead of them," answered Roland.

Without delay the company, now increased to eleven, turned to the east, and marched down close to the river bank. Cottage after cottage was passed, but they purposely avoided the roads. West of Jemeppe is a little cluster of cottages, where some of the company knew boats were obtainable, and as this was approached the bell of the château struck three.

If the cottages along the way were silent, it was evident that the cottagers were not asleep. As they neared the street they could see many of the villagers, and at the shore were a dozen boats, and several more could be seen out in the stream.

The appearance of the boys and the party attracted no particular attention, but it was seen that the men were manning the boats, and Roland and his men announced that they must cross in order to join the forces beyond.

"The Germans are on the other side, but how near we do not know. They have taken the bridge below here," said one of them.

The boys were interested listeners and observers. They now noticed that many of the men were armed, and that two of them had uniforms.

"Who is that man with the uniform?" asked Alfred, as Roland appeared.

"That is Captain Moreau. He is directing the movement of the reservists in this section."

The boys were startled at this as it meant the news of his capture was not true. Pierre must be with him then, and they rushed around trying to find him, but were unable to do so.

Over forty men manned the boats, and the boys were permitted to enter one of them.

The Captain gave a brief order and they were under way. As they neared the northern shore he said:

"Return as rapidly as possible to the next landing below and get those assembled there. We will await the party at Grand Oak crossing."

When all had landed they were quietly marched to the east until they struck a road leading to the north. A quarter of a mile beyond was a cross road, passing through a cluster of magnificent oaks. They were led to a thick wood adjoining the cross road, and concealed in the chapparal which commanded the main road.

It consumed an hour to reach this point, and it was now four in the morning. In a half hour more the party from the downstream landing appeared, and now the first streaks of dawn appeared. Without waiting for explanations as to the course to be pursued, the Captain selected four men, who were ordered to advance.

The scouts thus designated were armed, and immediately forged ahead, and after a wait of five minutes, the party followed. All talking was prohibited.

"We shall know within the next hour whether we shall meet friend or foe," said the Captain.

Every minute or two one of the scouts would appear and report to the Captain. The party marched on without halting, until a little village was reached, through which ran a main road.

Beyond was the railway from Tongres to Liège. This must be reached, for, if the Belgian reinforcements were coming it is probable they would come over this line.

"The party is too large to pass around the village," said the Captain. "We must divide, one-half going to the left and the other to the right. We shall meet at the railway, a mile beyond."

The boys were fortunate enough to accompany the party commanded by the Captain, and Roland was also one of the company.

All was too much excitement, however, to enable them to ask for much information. What if the road should be in possession of the Germans. It required no information to tell them what that would mean.

A tramp of twenty minutes brought them in sight of the railway embankment. The other party had arrived, and were in waiting. The commander in charge of the other party came forward with the information that no trains had come from the north since six o'clock the night before.

"That means that the Germans have seized the road," said the Captain. "Where is your informant?" he asked.

One of the men, who lived in the immediate neighborhood, came forward and he was carefully questioned. He could give no news as to the reason for the delay in trains.

"How far is it to the nearest station?"

"One kilometer to the east, Captain. I will undertake to go there and try to get some information."

"Go at once, and Corporal Antonio will accompany you."

Antonio was the non-commissioned officer who had charge of the other party in their movement around the village.

They hurriedly departed, and the Captain then disposed of the company, by ordering them to line the hedges along the embankment, and to remain perfectly quiet, until ordered to move.

After a wait of twenty minutes the corporal reappeared and reported that the Germans held the approach to the northern side of the bridge, and that a troop train had left Tongres less than a half hour ago.

"Then we must march to the north at once," said the Captain.

Now for the first time they felt the effects of the long strain. They still carried one of the packages of luncheon and noticed that rations were carried by the others as well. They had the pleasure of telling Roland about the luncheon, and now that the morning sun was appearing, and the company sat down to rest, they opened the package, and Roland assisted them in disposing of the contents.

There was no trouble now in getting food. Everywhere, the peasants supplied their necessities. Fruit was in abundance on all sides. This was, indeed, a grand holiday; but they were excessively tired. This was the second night without sleep. After nearly an hour's march they reached a village on the railway, and were gratified to learn that the troop train was a mile beyond, and rapidly approaching.

The company during the march had been gathering recruits, so that when the train came in sight more than a hundred formed the party. The Captain boarded the train, and immediately consulted the officer in command.

After a wait of nearly an hour, all of the recruits, together with the boys, got aboard, and the train slowly moved forward, passing several villages. Here are numerous coal mines, foundries and factories, and it was assumed that the Germans would first of all capture these places, and this they were attempting to do at this time.

The only thing which prevented them was the lack of transportation. They were concentrating an immense force to the south of the city, and investing it on all sides as fast as the facilities for moving the munitions of war and the troops permitted.

Beyond was Russau, which was soon reached, and as the boys looked out they saw a magnificent panorama. This town is fully 500 feet higher than Liège, and is over seven miles northeast. From that viewpoint could be seen the beautiful valley of the Meuse, and the city with its encircling forts, one of which, V Lautin, was directly to the southeast, and the other to the south, Ft. V Laucin.

A quick command was given, and in the shortest possible time the entire train was emptied of its living freight.

"What is the matter?" asked Alfred, startled at the sudden exodus.

"The Germans are across the railroad ahead," said Roland.

The boys' hearts sank within them. They watched the tracks which were laid from the platforms of the cars, and saw the field pieces wheeled down. Then the boxes that followed, that they knew contained the ammunition.

"What are those curious looking bullets?" asked Ralph.

Shrapnel Shell

"They are shrapnel. They are filled with bullets, and a bursting charge so as to scatter the bullets," said Roland.

"How are they made?" asked Alfred.

Roland then hurriedly explained it to them as follows:

"There is an outside shell A, which is provided with a charge of powder sufficient to explode it. This has a time fuse of such length that it will explode a sufficient distance ahead of the striking point, say two or three hundred feet. These bullets scatter where they strike."

"But why is it called 'shrapnel'?" asked Ralph.

"It was named after a British general, Shrapnel, who invented it about eighty years ago," replied Roland.

Exploding Shrapnel

The moment the guns were unloaded the train backed away, and the men deployed on both sides of the road, the guns being moved forward toward an advantageous position.

The German horsemen could be plainly seen at intervals between the shrubbery, more than a half mile beyond.

"How many men were aboard the train?" asked Alfred.

"About three hundred, including the officers and men of the battery," answered Roland.

The guns were soon in position. The lines had been selected for the men, but still there was no attack.

"What are they waiting for?" asked Ralph, impatiently.

"That is a pretty large force for us to attack. We are waiting for reinforcements. Another train load is on the way, and within two hours we shall have cavalry to support us," was the response.

Evidently the enemy did not purpose waiting.

One part of their cavalry moved to the east, and the other came directly forward. A command was given, and the guns, with shrapnel shot, began to speak. Behind the battery, and on a slightly elevated position, were some officers, with glasses. After each shot an order was given, or an observation made for the benefit of the gunners.

"Elevate a little more." "Farther to the left." "Change position to the right." "Good shot." And so on, as the boys and the others not belonging to the force crowded around.

Few of the shots, however, took effect in such a manner as to particularly make the actions of the troops noticeable. After each telling shot there would be confusion in the lines; this was plainly observable and when the shells exploded in front of the lines there would be a halt, and reformation of the columns.

They came on, however, and now the infantry commenced to send its volleys against the oncoming foe.

To reach the hill on which the battery was mounted it was necessary for the cavalry to cross two fences, one of them being formed of rock, along which had grown dense shrubbery. The force halted beyond the second hill, where it was screened, and for a time the firing ceased. Meantime the force which was detached to the right appeared to the left of the screened force, in a valley, and awaited, apparently, further orders.

The officer in command of the Belgians anxiously awaited word from the north, but none came. After an hour of waiting the guns were unlimbered, and with the infantry as a screen it retreated over the road to the northwest. This was done under cover, of course, so that the Germans supposed the battery was still on the hill.

Numerous scouting parties had been sent out, as soon as the command disembarked from the cars, and reports from the different sections now began to come in. The entire country south and between them and the outlying forts was occupied by the enemy. It would be impossible for them to enter Liège from that direction. The scouts reported that they must go to the west, as the Belgians still held the railway from Brussels and Louvain.

While all this was going on, a terrific bombardment was in progress. All of the forts south of the Meuse were in action, and two to the north. At least twenty German batteries had been planted within two days, all directed against the fortified hills.

It was a grand and thrilling spectacle to the boys. The dense haze caused by the burning powder, obstructed the rays of the sun; everywhere was bustle and confusion, as they gazed out on the great panorama before them. Ordinarily the great factories and foundries all about the city produced a like condition. But now the industrial works were silent. The hum of peaceful institutions was not like the noise of war.

"Do you see that house over there?" said Gascon. "That is where we have picknicked many a time. There is a beautiful grove over the hill, and adjoining the house."

"The Germans are there now; see them coming up the road!" exclaimed Ralph in excitement.

"There is a big stone quarry back of the house——"

The Captain heard Gascon, and quickly stepped over to him. "Do you know this part of the country?" he asked.

"Yes, I have been here many times," answered Gascon.

"Then come with me quickly," said the commander.

"I formerly lived in Liège, and know every part of the country around here. There is a large quarry beyond the red house. That would be a good place to send the company."

"I thank you very much for the information."

"May we go along with the company?" asked Ralph.

The officer smiled at his eagerness, as he gave the assent.

"But we want some guns," said Alfred, as he turned to address the officer.

There was a moment of hesitation. "By all means, you shall have them," he replied.

It was but the work of moments to supply them with the desired equipment, and when the boys marched down the hill with the detachment they were the happiest pair in Belgium.

"Aren't the guns heavy, though," remarked Alfred. "Wouldn't I like to shoot?"

This was another problem. They must learn the use of the weapons. They were soon to have an opportunity to learn that the soldier who uses the gun frequently, as in battle, will have a sore and bruised shoulder, from the recoil. It was sport to them now; how would it be later on?

Within twenty minutes the detachment reached the first of the quarries. Here was an admirable defensive work, made ready for them, and absolutely inaccessible to cavalry.

Roland was sent back to the commanding officer to report on the condition of the quarry and its surroundings, and within an hour the entire force was on its way, the artillery being mounted in a concealed position on the hill above the quarry, while the infantry used the entrenched part below.

Here the entire party awaited the expected reinforcements from the north, and the Germans remained, for the time being, quietly on the watch, a half mile below the red house.

CHAPTER IX
THE FIRST BATTLE

Thus the boys spent the first day of their journeyings as soldiers. How proud they were. They actually petted the guns. They had no uniforms, of course, and it was the only thing needed to make them supremely happy.

Their joy was so great that they almost forgot home, and when, in the dangers that later came, they thought of their parents, it was with great pride that they were able to be of service to Belgium in her hour of need.

There was another thing which awakened a sense of pleasure. The men realizing that they were only boys treated them like privileged characters. In accordance with the laws they had no right to bear arms; but in war many things are permitted that would not be tolerated in times of peace.

The boys had an early awakening. Ralph, who was first to arise and emerge from the little cove, which was occupied by their squad, rushed back into the enclosure, and cried: "An airship is coming."

Alfred was out in an instant. There, circling above them, was an air plane. The officers were viewing it with their glasses.

"What is it, Roland?" asked Alfred.

"It is a German flying machine, of the type called the Taube," he answered.

German Taube Airplane

"What is the difference between the Taube and the monoplane?" asked Ralph.

"The Taube is a monoplane. The word is the German name for dove. That name was given to it on account of its shape. See the broadly-spreading tail, and the peculiar wing-formation of the main planes."

After passing above the quarry the machine flew to the south, and then circled around so as to get a view of the tier of forts.

"See, there is another one off to the left," exclaimed Ralph.

In the distance, and in the direction from which the boys had come, in their wanderings, they noticed another ship of the same character. These were used for the purpose of ascertaining the locations, not only of the forts themselves, but to spy out the most convenient elevations in the vicinity of the fortifications.

The most important duty of the airplanes is to watch the movement of troops from one vicinity to the other, and to take particular note of the effect of the shells. In this respect they have an undoubted advantage over any other method ever used in warfare.

Heretofore the only way in which an attacking party could determine whether the shells took effect was indicated by the failure on the part of the fort to answer with their guns. But this was not the most satisfactory thing to judge from, because, in many instances, the forts would purposely cease firing, and thus delude the attackers into the belief that they were silenced by the exploding shells.

There is no mistaking the explosions of shells, as they fall around a fort. The flying machines are usually manned by a military observer, who has powerful glasses. He also has a large flag with a white center, and dark border. With this he can readily signal the effect of the shots to the officer at the battery, the latter being provided with field glasses.

The system of signals vary. Obviously, there are only four directions necessary in order to tell the gunners where to shoot. That is, if the shot should, for instance, go over the fort, the flag would be raised far over the head to indicate that fact. If the shot fell short, the flag would be lowered. In like manner, should the shot strike to the right, the flag would be waved in that direction, and so on.

If the shots are properly placed the flag is waved around the head, to show demonstration of approval.

The commander called Antonio, and directed him to take a squad and mount the hill directly to the east, using that as an observation point. Roland was one of the squad, and the boys begged permission to accompany them.

They made a hurried rush across the intervening depression, the entire force numbering fifty-five men. If the officer in command had known that the mission would be a dangerous one he would have denied the boys permission to go along; but it was too late now.

It was well that the commander had taken the precaution, for the moment they gained the crest of the hill they could plainly observe a body of infantry coming up the hill a mile to the east, and this was absolutely unobservable from the quarry position.

Before Antonio had time to consider what to do a company of dismounted cavalry appeared at the foot of the hill, evidently with the object of using the elevation as an observation point. The Germans had no idea that it was already occupied.

Antonio quietly gave instructions to the men. "Do not fire until I give the order. Keep cool, and when you fire, shoot low, and aim deliberately."

Alfred and Ralph were now at fever heat. It was the most momentous period of their lives. The excitement was most intense, and what made it still more trying was that they must keep quiet and suppress their feelings.

What emotions must be uppermost in the minds of soldiers when they are about to engage in the first real battle. Gen. Grant describes the feeling that overtook him while leading his company up the hill to meet, for the first time, an enemy, who was waiting to receive him. He said that the sensation was an indescribable one,—that his heart was in his mouth, and a spasm of sickness passed through his frame, which grew in intensity, until he began to think that, probably, the enemy felt just the same as he did, and gradually that terrible agony passed from him.

The enemy crossed the last fence and was now coming forward, fully a hundred men, along the side of the hill, and over obstructions that horses could not have passed.

Onward and upward. Why would not Antonio give the word to fire. The boys saw more than one of the men look toward him. The rifles were held ready for the trigger; still Antonio remained cool and impassive.

"Look at Antonio," said Alfred, under his breath. Then when he turned to look at Ralph he saw the gun in his hand trembling, and Alfred for the first time realized that his own hand was not steady, and it might be said that many a gun trembled at the first experience, for, aside from Antonio, few, if any, in that firing line had ever been in actual battle.

"Now, ready," said Antonio. The great suspense was over. Nobody looked toward Antonio now. They were looking toward the enemy. The guns ceased their trembling. All were firmly clasped as they awaited the next word.

"Fire!" The word came like a shriek. There was no necessity for silence now.

Every gun in the column spoke. And now each man, at command, began to fire at will. The boys were so excited that they did not know whether or not they served the guns properly. There was an overweening desire to see what the results of the shots were. Then something occurred which they had overlooked in the intensity of their feelings.

It was the roar of a hundred guns below them. They had momentarily forgotten that the enemy could also shoot. The boys, like the others, were behind a stone fence which ran directly across the hill.

Besides the roar of the guns they could now plainly hear the impact of the leaden bullets on this barricade. They had an awfully sickening sound. Sometimes, when the bullets passed over, they could hear a whizzing sound.

"Do you hear the sounds like bumble bees?" said Ralph to Roland.

"They must be bullets," said Alfred.

The latter nodded but did not reply. The boys now had an opportunity to see a little through the clouds of smoke around them. Antonio passed from one end of the column to the other incessantly. "Shoot deliberately," he said to one. "Don't hurry," to another. "Be sure to aim carefully; it is the true shot that counts, not the number."

Such coolness gave every one courage. It inspired them. If Antonio was not afraid, why should they be alarmed.

"Isn't Antonio brave!" said Ralph, who could not help admiring the calm officer.

Alfred merely straightened up, as though he disdained the shelter of the barricade, and brought his gun up for another shot.

"Good, boys!" cried Antonio. "We have them!" "Keep at it." And he ran back and forth in the greatest enthusiasm. Ralph jumped up in the excitement, and felt a sting in his left arm, that seemed to turn him around.

He sat down, and again threw his gun over the protection and kept on firing. Alfred was very business-like. He handled the gun like a veteran.

Roland called to Alfred, and said: "My boy, you will do us a good service if you can bring up some water for the men."

He jumped up and started for the cottage half way down the hill. He now remembered that he was intensely thirsty. He knew there was something lacking, but did not recognize what it was. A woman and three children were there, terrified at the scene before her. To her he made known his wants.

Instantly she brought forth several pails, and filling them at a nearby spring, assisted Alfred in carrying them up the hill. He did not forget the dipper and the other drinking vessels. What a mission of mercy Alfred and the woman performed, as they passed the cool water to the parched lips of the feverish fighters.

When Alfred returned to the firing line he saw Ralph leaning forward on his gun, and a stream of blood flowing out of his sleeve.

For a moment he was paralyzed; then jumping up he ran over to Antonio, and said: "Ralph has been shot!"

It was, indeed, a terrible thing to him, to see the blood, but the moment he uttered that word, "shot," it seemed to be much more of a catastrophe than to see his friend lying there motionless.

Antonio sprang forward and pulled off Ralph's coat. "Bring some water here," he said. This was plentifully applied to his head and face. "He has only fainted," was Antonio's comment. This was, fortunately, true, for Ralph soon opened his eyes and gazed on them in surprise. Roland quickly bathed the wound, which was a shot through the arm from which the blood was still flowing, and bound it up, while Ralph watched the proceeding.

But Antonio did not forget his duties. The shots from the attacking party came slower and at longer intervals. They were shielding themselves along the hillside, but they were not yet defeated.

"Roland, you must go to the quarry and tell them that reinforcements are coming up along the north road, and get the orders as to our disposition."

"Please let me go," pleaded Alfred. "There is a wheel down at the cottage."

The voice and the earnest manner appealed to Antonio. "Yes, you are a brave boy. You may take this order."

Those words of commendation were like a stimulant to the boy. The communication was quickly prepared, and Alfred hurried down the hillside, and told the woman his mission. He then grasped the bicycle and rapidly coasted down the hill along the main road which, although it made a detour, in order to reach the quarry, was nevertheless the most speedy means of reaching the main party.

The soldiers at the quarry had heard the firing and knew from its intensity and continued character that a strong party was in front, and were eager to hear from Antonio. Alfred was observed long before he reached the bottom of the depression, and half a dozen of the soldiers rushed down to the foot of the hill, and assisted him up the steep grade.

"We have whipped them," cried Alfred. "Oh, it was glorious."

"Have many been killed?" asked one of the men.

"I don't know," he responded. "Yes, several have been wounded. Ralph was shot."

"Who is Ralph?" asked one of the men.

"He is my cousin," answered Alfred.

"Oh, you mean your boy friend?"

"Yes, he was wounded in the arm, but we whipped them. We shot, and shot, and shot, until they stopped."

The soldiers could have hugged him with joy. When Alfred came into the quarry, still on his wheel, he handed the note to the commander, who hurriedly perused it. Without waiting for questions he gave a command, and soon a hundred men were on the way, under double time.

"So you two boys have been commended for bravery? We shall take particular pleasure to see that a proper report is made about you. As long as we have boys like you we shall have brave men," was his comment.

Alfred was bewildered. Antonio had commended him and Ralph as well, in the note. He did not know what to do or to say. "May I go back?" he finally asked.

"Yes," was the reply. "I will give you an order." This was hurriedly written and handed to him. With a salute, he mounted his wheel, and was ahead of the moving column before it began the ascent of the steep hill where Antonio's forces lay.

Ralph looked cheerful when Alfred arrived, but apparently was resentful, when the latter appeared.

"What is the matter?" asked Alfred.

"You have carried orders, and have really done something," was the halting reply.

Alfred looked around at the watchers, and then he smiled. "But you have been wounded in battle," he said.

"Yes, and mentioned in orders, too," added Roland.

"Oh, I forgot about that. The General said so. Yes, you have been wounded in battle and I haven't been." Alfred said this in a regretful tone of voice, and Ralph's face brightened at the thought.

Ralph looked up, and then turned to the men. "Well, is that anything?"

"Why, anybody can ride an old bicycle. That's nothing. But it's something to get in the way of a bullet that has been shot by an enemy for the purpose of killing," said Alfred.

Ralph smiled, and the men about them turned their heads away. There was a philosophy in that remark which went home to many of them that day. Can it be possible that a man can be a hero because he is wounded on the battle field?

CHAPTER X
IN THE MESSENGER SERVICE

This part of Belgium has a very curious formation. Many of the limestone quarries are really subterranean passages, and are of very ancient origin, and all this section of the country has a history which goes back to the time of the Romans. Not far north of the elevation where the present camp was formed, is an old Roman road, which runs in an unbroken line to Mons, in southwestern Belgium.

Belgium soil is also rich in human blood in this vicinity. Near by is a historic battle field, fought on Sept. 11, 1746; and northwest of Liège, on the plains of Neerwinden, two great battles were fought, one on July 29, 1693, when the French under Marshal Luxembourg defeated the Allies under William III, of England, and in the second battle, March 18, 1793, when the French under Dumouriez and Louis Phillipe were defeated by the Austrians under the Prince of Coburg.

It is no wonder that their proximity to the great battlefields should make the Belgians good soldiers. They knew that their forefathers had fought on many a field, and they possessed the spirit to try to emulate them.

That evening the boys had an opportunity to learn of many of the battles fought in the vicinity, the commander being a descendant of a famous family which contributed fighting heroes before Belgium became a separate nation.

Before ten o'clock that night, several messengers appeared in camp from the military commandant near Tondres, and they were ordered to proceed to the north at once.

The scouts in the front, who had been deployed in many directions, were informed that at twelve o'clock the command would break camp, and that Capt. Renee would command the rear guard, composed of the outlying pickets.

A large detail of men had been chosen to take care of the guns, which were first taken down the hill, half of the force accompanying them in the march toward Tondres, Ralph and the six wounded men being carried along on the caissons. Alfred was with Roland, under command of the Captain.

This was an opportunity that he had long awaited, as military operations in the night were fascinating to him. Ralph bitterly regretted his inability to be with them, but the loss of blood had weakened him, and it was not prudent to permit him to walk.

Promptly at twelve that night the corporal made his rounds, and quietly gathered in the picket patrols, which silently followed the two companies that had been left behind, the retreat being effected without the knowledge of the Germans. At two in the morning Alfred saw that they came up with the halted division, which had reached the railroad south of Tongres.

After a half hour's rest the entire force moved on, and as daylight began to appear the command was halted, and it was not long before many of the men had found comfortable places and were sleeping soundly.

Alfred was too fatigued to care where he slept. Ralph, on the other hand, was able to only after he became accustomed to the rolling motion of the heavy ordnance wagon.

At six o'clock he was up, and looking around was gratified to see Roland, who greeted the boy with the greatest enthusiasm.

"Are you looking for Alfred?" the latter inquired.

"Yes, do you know where he is?" asked Ralph.

"Poor fellow, he is almost dead with fatigue. You will find him on the straw to the left."

Ralph was over in an instant, and there was Alfred, lying on his side, sleeping as peacefully as though dead.

What he now noticed for the first time was the condition of Alfred's clothing. There was not a clean thread on the boy. The trousers had holes in the knees, the shoes were badly jagged, and the toes worn through. It would have been hard to recognize the hat, as it had no semblance of its former shape.

After gazing awhile he thought of his own clothing. It was no better, although strange that he had never noticed its dilapidated condition before. He remembered how they had to crawl through the brush, and along the hedges, and it was not remarkable that their clothing hung in threads.

No, he would not waken Alfred, much as he had to tell him, so he quietly wended his way back to the caisson. As he did so he passed the commandant's quarters, and that officer greeted him.

"And you are the wounded boy?" he said.

Ralph blushed, and answered: "I am the wounded soldier, sir." And then he stammered to correct his answer.

The officer laughed, as he responded: "You are right; I should have called you a man, because you have done a man's work. You boys are made of the right kind of stuff. But weren't you afraid when the bullets began to come whistling around you?"

"Yes, at first," he said a little hesitatingly, "I was afraid before Antonio told us to shoot."

"So you were afraid before either you or the Germans had a chance to shoot; is that it?"

"Well, yes; you see they seemed to come up pretty close before he gave us a chance to fire; but when we once commenced to shoot we didn't stop to think whether we were in danger or not."

"That is the right spirit, my boy. That is the way the true soldier feels."

At seven o'clock breakfast was ready and the entire camp was awake. Alfred came from the hillside, where he had his bed, and was directed to the caisson, where he greeted Ralph with many expressions of delight.

"Oh, we had a big time during the night; it was fine. We trailed along, but got awfully tired. But it was exciting," said Alfred.

"Sorry I couldn't be with you; but that is just my luck; had to be hit the first pop," answered Ralph, with a rueful look.

"But then you had a ride during the night. That was something," said Alfred.

Ralph didn't think so. It would have been more to his liking to have been with the moving column.

After breakfast the order was given to march. At ten o'clock they saw ahead of them a force of cavalry, and the boys recognized the familiar Belgian colors at the head of the column, and the well known uniforms of the troopers.

From the officer in command they learned that they were to encamp on the plains a little beyond the town, to await the arrival of the forces gathering to support the defenders of Liège.

Part of the cavalry remained with the troops, but the main body rapidly moved down the highway to intercept the Uhlans who were advancing from the east.

Alfred noticed their departure, with considerable wonder. "What is the object, Roland, of sending the cavalry down to fight, after we were told to retreat?" he queried.

"The cavalry can move more rapidly than the infantry, and they are to act as the scouts, to locate the positions of the enemy, report the direction of their movements, the sizes of the forces, and the character of the troops, and thus enable the main army to dispose of its forces accordingly."

"Do you know how long we shall remain in camp?" asked Alfred.

"That is difficult to tell," responded Roland. "You must understand that when war broke out Belgium did not know that her territory was to be crossed. For that reason, believing that Germany would observe her treaty obligations, our forces were not mobilized. Now we know better."

"But why do they gather the soldiers here?" queried Ralph.

"Because the object is to gather the soldiers as near the scene of action as possible. All our troops are being sent to the German frontier. One of the camps will be here, on the plains of Neerwinden, the great battle ground, where many of our army manœuvres have taken place."

"And is this the great battle ground?"

"Yes, the elevations about the plain have been filled with armies, and many a soldier has been slain on these historic grounds."

The boys looked about them, and they imagined how the soldiers of old must have fought and rushed hither and thither in the fury of the combat.

"It would be wonderful to see a battle here," said Ralph, half to himself, as he glanced at the hills beyond.

He little knew at that time that he would actually witness, not the battle between the ancient knights, that his fancy pictured, but the crash and roar of contending forces, with smoke and screeching shells and that on that very spot they would soon see dead and dying men, under conditions that would not permit them either to rescue or comfort them.

The boys soon became known to the others, and Ralph was the hero of the newcomers, as he had been wounded in one of the first fights that had actually taken place between forces in the field. The men never tired of telling how Alfred carried the first orders from a fighting force.

Here were two boys who had really been in an engagement, while most of the men who had been in the ranks for years had never seen an enemy in the field.

It had occurred to them that they ought to write home, but they believed that such a task would be useless. However, Roland informed them that the mails were still being carried and both boys now wrote the first accounts of their wonderful experiences.

How they detailed all the events, and the trials in their wanderings, and above all, of the great battle that they were in two days before, can best be left to the imagination. They were vivid boys' pictures, told with enthusiasm, and with pride.

The troops arrived every hour, some trains being made up entirely of artillery, others unloading great quantities of food and supplies. Stores of every kind were set up for the comfort and need of the troops, and it was a never-ending scene of bustle and activity.

Roland, who was with them much of the time, answered: "An army must live, and to be effective must be well fed. Napoleon said that an army fights on its stomach."

"What did he mean by that?" asked Ralph.

"That without a well-filled stomach a soldier cannot fight well."

"But how do they know how much food of this kind to send down here? It seems to me they have enough here now to feed a big army," said Alfred.

"And it will be a big army, too, before we are through with it. The government has what is called a commissary department, whose duty it is to calculate just how many rations are required for each company for a certain period. They know it takes so much flour, and vegetables, and meat, and all the other necessaries to sustain them. Then the ordnance division knows how many guns are needed for that particular force, and what ammunition is required. The transportation department is called upon to deliver the requisite quantity of supplies to a certain point within a certain time. They must calculate how many trains are necessary to transport so many troops. In that way every department is called upon by the commanding officer of an army."

"But just what is meant by 'mobilization'?"

"Mobilize means to move. To mobilize troops means not only to move troops to a certain place but also to move food and ammunition supplies. One without the other would be useless."

"It must be a wonderful thing to have all those things so arranged that it can be done promptly and without confusion," said Alfred.

"Yes, that is what the German army has been noted for. To have all those details arranged so that within twenty-four or forty-eight hours fifty thousand troops can be moved even fifty miles appears a great undertaking, but that is what the Germans have done."

"How many German troops are now before Liège, do you think?" asked Ralph.

"I have heard it said there were over seventy-five thousand, either there or else in the close vicinity, and probably three times that number crossing the Rhine."

"And war was declared only eight days ago!" said Ralph.

The next day the first definite news was brought to the camp concerning the state of affairs in Liège. The forts had repulsed every storming party and defeated the invaders, so there was great cheering in the camp when the papers reached them.

Alfred carried a paper to Ralph. "We are whipping the Germans all along the line," he said, as he waved the paper.

Ralph read the startling head-lines, and gave the news the greatest emphasis. The stubborn resistance added immensely to the spirit of the soldiers and they commented on every feature.

Two days more passed, then ten days, and the forts still held. It was a period of pride to the boys, as they read every line of the papers brought into the camp. They gloated over the dismay of the Germans, who believed that a bombardment of a day or two at most would enable them to storm the town and capture the forts with their heavy guns.

"Why are they so anxious to capture Liège?" asked Ralph.

"Because they dare not leave a stronghold of that kind in their rear, as they pass through Belgium," answered Roland.

"What difference would it make?" asked Alfred.

"An enemy in a strongly fortified position in the rear, or on either flank, will always subject the advancing army to attack, but the most serious difficulty to an army under such condition is that, as the advancing army must be daily supplied with provisions and ammunition, a fortified city, like Liège, would always lay open to attack the railroad lines, which supply them, and the cutting of the lines of communication would subject them to defeat or capture."

"I did not think of that," answered Ralph.

"The General said in the first fight we had, that the Germans tried to out-flank us. What did he mean by that?" asked Ralph.

"If an enemy goes around the end of the fighting line it has out-flanked them. The object of flanking is to get behind one end of the force, and thus make it change its position or, as is most usually the case, compel the out-flanked party to fight on a front which is not provided with earthworks or other means of protection."

During all this time the bombardment continued. Sometimes it was an incessant roar. In the meantime the Germans came closer, but the city was not yet entirely surrounded. As infantry would be useless within the town, the Belgian forces were waiting outside to resist the advance of the foe, in its attempt to cross toward the border.

CHAPTER XI
PURSUED BY THE UHLANS

Still Liège did not surrender. Every day the glorious news would come of the terrible bombardment, and of thrilling deeds of heroism. Brave little Belgium was checking the giant which dared to molest her soil. Ten days of intermittent thunder followed, which could plainly be heard twenty-five miles beyond the outer circle of forts, to the north.

A Dome-Topped Fort of Liège

The twelve great forts were not silenced by the incessant hail poured on them from all sides. The Germans were astounded; the Belgians exultant. The resistance had held back the German advance for two weeks. They had expected to be in France, and well on the way to Paris, before this time.

Each day rumors grew stronger, and more persistent, that the great German army had begun its march to overrun Belgium. Liège had been entirely invested. The Belgian army had stretched like a cordon across the highways between Liège on the one hand, and Tirlemont, St. Trond, Landin and Namur on the other.

Soldiers, camp outfits, guns, ammunition, food supplies, horses, and every sort of equipment for the use of soldiers were arriving by every train. In the meantime the boys were very busy at every sort of work which chanced to fall in their way.

During the first part of their stay at the camp Ralph's wound gave him some trouble, and Alfred was always ready to wait on him, but as the wound began to heal, Ralph's restless energy made itself manifest.

"We must have something to do," he said, as he was wandering around with Alfred, one morning.

"Let us see Capt. Moreau," said Alfred, as with a sudden inspiration.

The Captain welcomed them warmly.

"So you want something to do?" he asked.

"Yes," said Ralph. "We can do the work, just as well as men, and some things we may be able to do better than some men."

"And what may that be?" he asked.

Alfred laughed as he quickly responded: "Well, we can carry orders, anyway."

The officers standing about, who heard the conversation, heartily applauded.

"I think we can fix you up," he said. "Do you know how to ride motorcycles?"

At this the hearts of Ralph and Alfred bounded and thumped.

"Of course," said Ralph, and his voice had just enough questionable expression in it to show that he felt some doubt of success in getting the wished-for machines.

The doubts were soon dispelled. "Make a requisition for two motorcycles, to be placed in charge of Alfred and Ralph," the Captain said.

They danced about in a delirium of joy. "When can we have the machines?" asked Alfred, as he turned to the orderly.

"We have plenty of them in the warehouse."

The boys looked at the Captain. "Yes, go at once. Get used to them as quickly as possible. The General may want you any time," he ordered.

They saluted the officer, then started out with the orderly.

"I have a new pattern. It is a machine that is light and strong, and it is also made with two seats," he said. "That is the kind you ought to have. They are made so that scouts who use them can bring in a comrade or a wounded soldier."

One of the temporary sheds, erected less than a week before, was the warehouse for the cycle brigade, and here the orderly halted. After selecting two of the crates he had the attendants open them, to the delight of the eager boys.

Within an hour the machines were ready. Alfred was the first to take his lesson, and, with the instructor, they were soon away, taking their course toward Tirlemont, to the north.

Ralph was not yet well enough to be able to risk a trip, as his arm was not yet out of the sling, but when Alfred returned he saw Ralph examining his own machine.

He was delighted to see Alfred on the front seat, and at once met him with a volley of questions.

"Yes, we went clear to St. Trond," said Alfred. "Oh, the machine works splendidly. Never had an accident. But you ought to see the soldiers and the guns, and wagons along the way,—thousands and thousands of them."

Just then there was an intense commotion at the southern border of the camp.

"See that man in a motorcycle. They are following him."

The messenger alluded to was waving his hand, as a signal to those in front to clear the way. He proceeded direct to headquarters, and dismounted.

Soldiers, civilians and workmen, rushed forward and crowded around. "What is the news?" everyone asked. An officer appeared at the door of the commandant's quarters.

"The Germans have entered Liège," he said. There was a murmur and Alfred and Ralph looked at each other in astonishment.

Soon those about, after recovering from the stunning news, began to make inquiries.

"While they have entered the city, they have not captured the forts," the officer said, and he spoke it proudly, too.

"How could they capture the city and not the forts?" asked Alfred. Roland, who stood by, then explained that the fight was between the forts and the besiegers and that the possession of the city was of no value to the Belgians.

"The best way to protect the city itself, is to permit the Germans to occupy it, otherwise the shells directed against the forts might lay it in waste," he said. "With the Germans in the city they would not be likely to permit their shells to pass beyond the fort."

During the entire day Alfred was practising and later in the afternoon, when the instructor formally turned over the machine to him he invited Ralph to accompany him.

This time he turned the wheel toward the east. About four kilometers away (three miles), they passed through Ottenhoven then, six miles beyond, Kerckham, another village, on the main road, and turning directly to the south, they soon reached another village called Mielen, which was fully fifteen kilometers from Neerwinden, the site of their camp.

Everywhere they found pickets, and frequently were held up by the cavalry patrols. One such an incident will explain how this was done, and what the boys did to free themselves.

As they emerged from the southern edge of the village of Mielen, on the direct road to Waremme, a cavalry patrol halted them. Alfred dismounted, and drew from his pocket the order appointing him a special headquarters messenger, with a safe conduct to all places within the Belgian lines.

Noticing Ralph's arm in a sling, it was explained to them that he had received the wound in the battle fought below Tongres, the week before. The corporal in charge of the squad touched his hat, by way of salute. They had heard of the brave boys, and as they sped away the troopers cheered them heartily.

A mile east of Waremme they reached the great Roman road, called by the country folk in that neighborhood, Route de Brunhilde, and the people at the wayside readily directed them to follow it to the west. At the border of the city, they were again halted, and then allowed to pass on. Everything was excitement here, with people hurrying to and fro.

Up to this time the excitement of the ride had made them forget their own needs but now they soon recognized they were very hungry.

Ralph was the first to speak of it. "But what shall we do? We have no money," he remarked.

This was the first time in all their wanderings during the past two weeks, that the question of money became a matter of moment to them. They had found plenty to eat along the highways, and even in their wanderings they always had enough to eat.

But here was a new problem to them. They gazed longingly at the many good things all about them, but they did not have even a sou about them. While thus speculating a body of infantry passed, and the boys followed, more from habit than anything else. They had no definite object in view, in doing so.

Beyond was an open space where tents had been erected along the northern border of the green. They mounted the motorcycle, and were speeding across the space, when a cordon of guards held them up, and one of the soldiers called for the corporal.

A tall soldier marched up, and answered: "What is it?"

Alfred sprang forward: "Is that you, Pierre?" he cried.

It was, indeed, Pierre, who was the corporal, in charge of the squad. He recognized the boys with a smile and a handshake.

"What are you doing here?" he inquired.

It did not take the boys long to tell him of the wonderful things that had happened since the battle in which Ralph was wounded. Motioning them to follow, Pierre crossed the shaded portion of the commons, and entered the guarded enclosure where the commander of the post had his office.

Pierre, addressing the commander, said: "These boys have been detailed as special messengers from the commander at Neerwinden camp, and have been practising on their machine. These are the lads who were mentioned in General Orders a week ago, for bravery in battle, and for services rendered to the fighting force."

"But we used the guns, ourselves," said Ralph, with a little pardonable pride.

And Alfred nodded his head, as he looked at Ralph. There was a twinkle in the eyes of the officer, as he said: "I welcome men and boys like you. In what way can I be of any service to you?" he inquired.

The boys looked at each other for a moment, and then Alfred replied, "Well, we are awfully hungry and we haven't a sou between us."

"That can be quickly remedied. Your friend will take care of that," he said with a smile, as he looked at Pierre. "Do you intend to return to Neerwinden to-day?" he asked, as the boys were filing out.

"Yes," said Ralph, "if you have any orders for us."

"You are not on duty now, I understand, but I have some very important papers to transmit, and they should reach the camp to-day."

"Then we will return at once," said Alfred.

"No, get a good meal first, and rest a bit, and there will be plenty of time."

Pierre now had them to himself and with him they visited the commissary department where a meal was set before them and was greatly enjoyed. Pierre took them around to the soldiers, and introduced them everywhere, explaining what they had accomplished.

On all sides they heard their names mentioned, because the scene of their first exploits on the battlefield occurred not more than ten miles to the east, and many of the features of that engagement were known to the people of the town, which was about sixteen miles north of Liège.

Pierre led the boys to a long, low building, in front of which were two dozen or more boys, about their ages, all dressed in uniforms. "These are the boy scouts," he said.

"What fine uniforms they have," said Ralph, as he looked at Pierre, and then at his own clothing.

Alfred did not answer for some time. He was thinking. As Pierre beckoned to several of the superior officers, they approached, and were at once introduced to the boys, as the heroes of the battle at Russon.

"Do they want to join us?" asked one of the scouts.

"No," said Pierre. "They are headquarters messengers at the camp at Neerwinden."

This, in itself, was sufficient to give them a proper introduction.

"How long have you been a scout?" asked Ralph, of one of the boys.

"Over a year, and it is fun, I can tell you."

"You must have had a lot of experience," said Alfred.

"Indeed, we have," answered several.

"But have you ever been in a battle?" asked Pierre.

"No," they replied.

"But these boys have," said Pierre, as he caressed Ralph's wounded arm.

And now, boy-like, they crowded around Ralph, and began to ply him with questions. "How did it feel to be hit?" "How many times did you shoot?" "Do you think you hit anybody?" "Did you feel afraid?" "Did you stand up and shoot?" These and many other questions were hurled at the boys who answered them as fast as they could.

But the boys, contented as they were to remain under such delightful surroundings, were impatient to return, so together with Pierre, they rapidly moved towards the commandant's quarters and after passing the guard were ushered in.

"I see you are determined to go back. Well, here are the papers, which must be delivered before nine o'clock to-night. Au revoir!"

Pierre helped them to mount the motorcycle, and with cheers and good wishes from the officers and men, they passed out of the enclosed green and soon reached the Route de Brunhilde. It was fun for Pierre to put on the speed throttle, and rush past the different groups which they occasionally met.

These gatherings were particularly noticeable at the intersection of roads. Before reaching the branch road which led to Mielen, they saw a particularly excited group, which hailed and motioned them to stop. But the boys knew their orders were to deliver their message as early as possible and presuming that the country people were trying to hold them up out of curiosity, they did not heed the warnings, but passed on.

Ahead of them was the main road leading to the north, which they must take. They saw, at the next road another group of peasants, who waved to them to go back. This now appeared threatening to them. They halted several hundred feet beyond the group, and one of the leaders pointed to the north, and there at a distance they saw twenty or more horsemen, which the boys at once recognized as the dreaded Uhlans.

"What shall we do?" asked Ralph. "They are on our road, and we cannot reach Mielen unless we go that way."

"Why not go to St. Trond, and then reach Neerwinden from that point?" said one of the neighbors.

"But what road shall we take?" said Alfred.

"There is a road a kilometer beyond."

"Then we must take it," said Ralph. "Come Alfred, we must not wait."

They were urged to remain but they mounted and some of the peasants accommodatingly pushed the machine forward and soon it was under full speed. Less than a half-mile away were the Uhlans. The boys did not stop to thank the peasants as they knew that their safety and the possibility of reaching St. Trond lay in gaining the road beyond.

The Uhlans saw the speeding machine, and were in motion at once down the road. Some of them leaped the hedges and started across the field diagonally, but the speed of the machine was too great to afford the pursuers any advantage, even with the short cut thus attempted.

Two of the troopers in the field dismounted, and taking deliberate aim, fired, but the boys did not hear the whiz of the bullets.

"They are going to try it again, but it will do them no good," said Ralph. "The Uhlans are now turning the corner at the crossing. Put on all the speed you can and I'll keep you informed of all that happens. Yes, the troopers who tried the cross-cut have leaped the hedge and are now in the road. I wonder what is the matter with one of the horses. It seems to be lame."

And so Ralph kept up a constant flow of words to indicate the condition in the rear.

"I wonder what they are lining up that way for," said Ralph. "They are now coming on five abreast and they are going to shoot." But the buzz of the motor prevented their hearing the volley that followed.

Distance, and the moving figures on both sides, were the safety factors in the running fight, if it might be so termed. Suddenly Alfred gave a cheer and Ralph turned his head.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Our cavalry are coming. Hurrah," said Ralph.

Like an avalanche a troop of fifty horsemen came along, and Alfred did not check the machine. The cavalry opened an avenue through which he guided the motorcycle, and when they emerged from the lane thus made, he halted.

The boys heard an order, and one-half of the command started on a terrific pace to the south. The Uhlans did not wait to ask any questions, but turned and fled. The boys watched the fascinating scene until they were out of sight. The officer inquired as to their mission, and when they presented their papers, and stated that they must deliver the papers at the camp at Neerwinden as early as possible, the officer gave them minute instructions which would take them through Altenhoven without going to St. Trond, thus making it a much safer trip than it would otherwise have been.

Map of Liège