The little war correspondent needed no further urging. Chester took his place beside him. It was a tight squeeze, for the machine had not been constructed to carry two in the rear seat, but Chester and Stubbs managed it. Hal climbed in the pilot’s seat and adjusted the spark. "All ready?" he called over his shoulder. "Shoot," answered Stubbs, grasping the side of the plane firmly. Almost at the same moment there came a sudden interruption to the flight of the three friends. Half a dozen forms appeared from nowhere at all and quickly surrounded the plane. Half a dozen rifles were leveled at the craft and a harsh German voice exclaimed: "Halt!" Stubbs gave an exclamation of disgust. "I knew it," he said, and that was all. Hal muttered an imprecation beneath his breath. They had been so close to getting away safely, and now this interruption made him angry. "Well," he told himself, "there is nothing to do but try and bluff it out. Fortunately, we have not discarded our German uniforms." He raised his voice and called: "What’s the meaning of this?" "Get out of that plane," said the German voice. The muzzles of half a dozen rifles made Hal realize that discretion truly is the better part of valor. "There’s no help for it," he told himself. He got out. Chester and Stubbs followed his example. Hal approached the man who had accosted them. "What’s the meaning of this?" he demanded again. For the first time the German appeared to notice the German uniforms and the straps that proclaimed Hal and Chester captains in the emperor’s service. "Your pardon if I have made a mistake, captain," he said. "But how was I to know? Yesterday I found this plane—clearly an American craft—hidden here. I had it watched all to-day, but no one came near it. I saw no bodies near to indicate that the American pilot had been killed. Therefore I judged that there was a spy within our lines. That’s why my men have stood guard here until now." "You have done well, lieutenant," said Hal. "It’s true that this is an American craft, but it has been used by our friend here," and he indicated Stubbs, "for purposes favorable to the German cause. Herr Schindler arrived early yesterday morning and reported to General Knoff in Sedan. Now Captain Diegle and myself are bound on a little expedition with him. Do I make myself clear, lieutenant?" "Perfectly," and the lieutenant ordered his men to lower their rifles. "It is not for me to question the wisdom of my superiors." "You are a good officer, lieutenant," said Hal. "I shall see that General Knoff hears of your vigilance." "Thank you, captain. Is there anything I may do for you before you proceed on your journey?" "Nothing, thanks. Then with your permission, lieutenant, we shall continue our interrupted journey." Hal turned again toward the car. Chester and Stubbs followed him. "Quickly, now," said Hal in a low voice. "His suspicions may be aroused again. We’ve no time to lose."