advanced toward them, and took the shape
of a man with black hair, a short close beard and an intelligent face.
He approached John and Lannes and looked at them closely.

"Mr. Scott!" he exclaimed, with eagerness, "I did not know what had
become of you. I was afraid you were lost in one of the battles!"

"Why, it's Weber!" said John, "our comrade of the flight in the
automobile! And I was afraid that you too, were dead!"

The two shook hands with great heartiness and Lannes joined in the
reunion. He too at once liked Weber, who always made the impression of
courage and quickness. He wore a new uniform, olive in color with dark
blue threads through it, and it became him, setting off his trim,
compact figure.

"How did you get here, Mr. Weber?" asked John.

"I scarcely know," he replied. "My duties are to a certain extent those
of a messenger, but I was caught in the last battle, wounded slightly,
and separated from the main French force. The little company which I had
formed tried to break through the German columns, but they were all
killed or captured except myself, and maybe two or three others. I hid
in a wood, slept a night there, and then reached Paris to see what is
going to happen. Ah, it is terrible! terrible! my comrades! The Germans
are advancing in five great armies, a million and a half strong, and no
troops were ever before equipped so magnificently."

"Do you know positively that they have a million and a half?" asked
Lannes.

"I did not count them," replied Weber, smiling a little, "but I have
heard from many certain sources that such are their numbers. I fear,
gentlemen, that Paris is doomed."

"Scott and I don't think so," said Lannes firmly. "We've gained new
courage today."

Weber was silent for a few moments. Then he said, giving Lannes his
title as an officer:

"I've heard of you, Lieutenant Lannes. Who does not know the name of
France's most daring aviator? And doubtless you have information which
is unknown to me. It is altogether likely that one who pierces the air
like an eagle should bear messages between generals of the first rank."

Lannes did not answer, but looked at Weber, who smiled.

"Perhaps our trades are not so very different," said the Alsatian, "but
you shoot through clouds while I crawl on the ground. You have a great
advantage of me in method."

Lannes smiled back. The little tribute was pleasing to the dramatic
instinct so strong in him.

"You and I, Mr. Weber,