Paris, and yet she
has shown no sign of it."

John was silent. He did not know what to say, but Lannes did not pursue
the subject, remaining a full five minutes at the window, and not
speaking again, until he turned away.

"John," he said then, "let's go outside and take a look about the
quarter. It's important now to watch for everything."

John was full willing. He recognized the truth of Lannes' words and he
wanted air and exercise also. A fortress was a fortress, whether one
called it a home or not, Lannes led the way and they descended to the
lower hall, where the gigantic porter was on watch.

"My friend and I are going to take a look in the streets, Antoine," said
Lannes. "Guard the house well while we are gone."

"I will," replied the man, "but will you tell me one thing, Monsieur
Philip? Do Madame Lannes and Mademoiselle Julie remain in Paris?"

"They do, Antoine, and since I leave tomorrow it will be the duty of you
and Suzanne to protect them."

"I am gratified, sir, that they do not leave the capital. I have never
known a Lannes to flee at the mere rumor of the enemy's coming."

"And I hope you never will, Antoine. I think we'll be back in an hour."

"I shall be here, sir."

He unbolted the door and Lannes and John stepped out, the cool night air
pouring in a grateful flood upon their faces. Antoine fastened the door
behind them, and John again heard the massive bolt sink into its place.

"The quarter is uncommonly quiet," said Lannes. "I suppose it has a
right to be after such a day."

Then be looked up, scanning the heavens, after the manner that had
become natural to him, a flying man.

"What do you see, Philip?" asked John.

"A sky of dark blue, plenty of stars, but no aeroplanes, Taubes or other
machines of man's making."

"I fancy that some of them are on the horizon, but too far away to be
seen by us."

"Likely as not. The Germans are daring enough and we can expect more
bombs to be dropped on Paris. Our flying corps must organize to meet
theirs. I feel the call of the air, John."

Young Scott laughed.

"I believe the earth has ceased to be your natural element," he said.
"You're happiest when you're in the _Arrow_ about a mile above our
planet."

Lannes laughed also, and with appreciation. The friendship between the
two young men was very strong, and it had in it all the quality of
permanence. Their very unlikeness in character and temperament made them
all the better comrade