And Stewart, catching that glance, was suddenly conscious that his mouth was open and his eyes staring and his whole attitude that of a man struck dumb by astonishment. Hastily he bent over to re-tie a shoestring. But really, he told himself, he could not be blamed for being disconcerted--anybody would be disconcerted to be told suddenly that his most desperate lie was true! But how could it be true? How could there be any such postcard as the German had described? Was it just another trap? "We understand, of course, that you were merely doing your duty," the girl's voice was saying; "what seemed unfair was that we should be the victims. Do I understand that--that you no longer suspect us?" "Absolutely not; and I apologize for my suspicions." "Then we are at liberty to proceed?" "You cannot in any event proceed to-night. I will pass you in the morning. And I hope you will not think that any discourtesy was intended to you as Americans. Germany is most anxious to retain the good-will of America. It will mean much to us in this struggle." "Most Americans are rather sentimental over Alsace-Lorraine," said Stewart, who had recovered his composure, and he fished for a cigar and offered one to the officer, who accepted it with a bow of thanks. "That is because they do not understand," said the other, quickly. "Alsace and Lorraine belong of right to Germany. Of that there can be no question." "But haven't you been rather harsh with them?" "We have not been harsh enough. Had we done our duty, we would have stamped out without mercy the treason which is still rampant in many parts of those provinces. Instead, we have hesitated, we have temporized--and now, too late, we realize our mistake. The spy for whom we are searching at this moment comes from Strassburg." Stewart started at the words; but the girl threw back her head and burst into delighted laughter. "So you took us for spies!" she cried. "What a tale to tell, Tommy, when we get home!"