“We can only try,” said Dean gloomily. “At least we know where to pick up their trail the next time.” “Damn them,” cried Dean, “I believe they suspect that they may be followed and time their arrival here so as to be the last aboard the ferryboat. That shuts off pursuit effectually. They make this trip every week. I wouldn’t be surprised if they have not fixed it with the ferry people to pull out as soon as they arrive. A two-dollar bill might do the trick. I’d give five thousand right now if we were on the other side of the river. It’s the first time—the only time I’ve ever failed the Chief.” “Never mind,” said Jane consolingly, “why can’t we be waiting for them at the other side next week when they come up here? They’re not apt to suspect motorcyclists they meet up here with having followed them.” “Perhaps next week will be too late.” “I wonder where they are headed for,” said the girl, looking across at the rapidly receding boat. “Why, look! What are those buildings over there?” “That’s West Point,” Dean exclaimed, noting for the first time where they were. “West Point!” she echoed in amazement. What mission could the Hoffs have that would take them to the United States Government military school was the question that perplexed them both. Could it be that the web of treachery and destruction the Kaiser’s busy agents were weaving had its deadly strands fastened even here—at West Point? CHAPTER X CARTER’S DISCOVERY “It’s the young man I’m after,” said Chief Fleck. “We have the goods on old Hoff, but we have nothing incriminating against Frederic yet. The very fact that he holds aloof from his uncle’s activities makes me think he is engaged in more important work. He’s just the type the Germans would select as a director.” “That’s right,” said Carter despondently. “There’s nothing except the fact that Dean and the girl think they saw him in British uniform. Why didn’t they follow and make sure?” “They tried to,” said the chief, “but he gave them the slip. I’m inclined to believe they were mistaken. More than likely it was a chance resemblance. Lots of Britishers of the Anglo-Saxon strain look much like Germans, and a uniform makes a big difference in a man’s appearance. I’m afraid there’s nothing in that.” “But both saw the man—Dean and Miss Strong,” protested Carter. “The trouble is,” observed Fleck, “that Dean is getting infatuated with the girl. A young man in love is not a keen observer. Anything she thinks she has seen he’ll be ready to swear to. I hope the girl keeps her head. Lovers don’t make good detectives.” “I have watched them together,” said Carter. “I’ll admit he’s struck on her, but I don’t think she cares a rap for him. She’s too keenly interested in Frederic Hoff.” “What do you mean by that?” asked the chief sharply.