eral," said
Captain Derevaux, when the boys informed him of their mission. "Just keep
as cool as you have been in the past, and I am sure you will get through
without trouble."

It was late that night when the lads made their way from the young
captain's quarters, passed beyond the outposts, and made their way into
the forest beyond, following the road, but keeping well within the shadow
of the trees.

"This is the best summer vacation we have ever had," declared Hal, as
they went slowly along.

"You are right, there," replied Chester. "Of course, war is a terrible
thing, but as long as there is a war I would rather be over here where I
can see what is going on than to be sitting home reading about it in the
newspapers."

"Yes; and then you couldn't be exactly sure you were getting the facts."

Shortly after sunrise the boys came upon a large farmhouse.

"It's pretty early," remarked Hal, "but perhaps we can find some one and
get a bite to eat."

They approached and found the household already astir. As they
ascended the steps, a young girl, probably sixteen years of age, came
out on the porch.

"Can you provide us with a little something to eat?" asked Hal politely
in French, doffing his cap.

The girl glanced at him, a puzzled expression coming over her face.

"I don't understand French very well," she said, in English.

"By George!" exclaimed Hal. "I thought so. That is," he apologized for
his exclamation, "I was sure you were not French."

This time Hal had spoken in English, and a look of surprise had come over
her face, followed by an expression of delight.

"I was sure you were Americans!" she exclaimed, and then added
hesitatingly, "or are you--can it be you are English?"

"No; we are Americans, all right," Chester broke in; "but we certainly
didn't expect to run into an American girl in this corner of the world."

"No; particularly at a time like this," agreed Hal.

"Oh, I am perfectly safe here," replied the girl "Uncle, who is a Belgian
officer, has joined his regiment, and I am here with only two servants.
He wanted me to go to Liege with him, but I preferred to remain here. No
one will harm me."

"But the Germans may come through here at any time, and then you would be
in danger."

"Oh, no. Several German regiments already have passed by, and some of the
officers were here. They assured me I would not be molested."

"Nevertheless, you are likely to be. You can't tell what may happen.