The Germans sprang forward, and despite the unbroken front presented by the five Americans, they were borne back by the force of numbers. It appeared that the Yankee officers had underestimated the temper of their foes. They retreated fighting, until their backs were against a house. "We can defend ourselves here, using our revolvers if necessary," said the colonel. "I’ve a better plan, sir," said Chester. "What is it?" "We’ll back up the steps just to our left, sir, and take possession of the house." "And then what?" "Then I’ll run the gauntlet of the crowd and bring reinforcements, sir." "Not a bad idea," said the colonel. "We’ll try it." The little party moved to the left and mounted the steps, still presenting an unbroken front to their foes. Chester tried the door. It was unlocked. The lad opened it and the Americans stepped inside. "Bolt the door!" cried the colonel. "One moment," said Chester. "Let me out first." "I’m going along, Chester," said Hal quietly. "All right," said Chester. "Come on. The rest of you cover us with your revolvers. Tell you what. Fire a couple of shots over their heads. That will give us time to make a break. Then bar the door behind us." He waited for no reply, but darted directly toward the crowd of Germans, both revolvers levelled directly into their midst. Hal, keeping close beside his chum, did likewise. "Crack! Crack! Crack!" The three American officers left behind had followed out Chester’s injunction and fired over the heads of the crowd. Instantly confusion swept the mob. It was the moment for which Chester had hoped. Into the crowd he dashed, reversing his revolver and striking right and left. Hal was right beside him, his own arms flying about like flails. And almost before they knew it, so sudden had been their actions, they burst clear of the crowd. "Now run!" shouted Hal. Chester needed no urging. The lads sped over the ground, while from behind came cries of anger. Balked of their prey, about half of the Germans nevertheless gave chase. The other half, as though by prearrangement, remained to guard the Americans who had sought shelter in the house. But Hal and Chester were too fleet of foot for their pursuers. They outdistanced them easily. The rest was simple. Fifteen minutes later a company of American soldiers marched to the house where the officers were hiding and cleared the streets of Germans. As Hal walked through the dispersing crowd, a hand caught him by the arm. "Aha!" said a voice, "Major Paine, eh?" Hal glanced into the countenance of General Knoff, whom he had seen first at Sedan. "And," continued the general, "Major Crawford, too, eh?" "The same, general," said Chester, smiling. "It is good," said General Knoff. "You may remember recently, at Spa, I invited you to see me when you come to Berlin?" "Yes, sir," said Chester, "and so we shall, when we get there."