can't see it," argued Ned. "You seem to know that the Germans are
moving westward from Peremysl. That is more than we know."

"We know that they have been successful in their assault on the town,
and we understand that the capture of that stronghold will leave many
troops free for use at other points. What can be more natural than
that they should leave Peremysl in the hands of a force sufficient to
guard it against any possible attack by the Russians and rush the
remainder of their troops to other points where they are needed--say a
few regiments at strategic points like Verdun?"

As he finished speaking the man glanced casually about the place, as if
observing a passer-by. Ned and his companions exchanged quick looks of
inquiry. Using the mute language in which the boys were adept, Ned
flashed a question at his chums.

"What do you suppose he wants?" he asked. Then in the same manner he
went on: "Be careful. I mistrust this fellow! He is not square!"

Jack and Harry had only time to nod their understanding of the message
before the man again turned to them and went on:

"So you see, don't you, that you would be rendering a real aid to a
stricken and starving people by giving us whatever information you may
have about the movements of the German troops?"

"No, I can't say that I do," replied Ned positively. "You seem to have
plenty of information on hand right now to enable you to make any
necessary preparations for the advent of the Germans if such a thing
should happen. For myself, I don't believe that the Germans would
visit this place a second time. It isn't at all likely."

"And why not, pray?" was the man's query.

"For the same reason that lightning doesn't strike twice in the same
place and a mule doesn't kick twice in the same place--they don't have
to," was Ned's quiet answer. "That's a good reason, isn't it?"

Although Ned's answer had been made in a quiet tone, the words were
full of meaning, and it was apparent to all that the man was capable of
understanding the firmness and resolve in Ned's manner and voice.

"So, then, you refuse to give me any information concerning the
movement of the troops?" went on the other with an air of finality.
"Of course, I suppose you realize that the result of a German raid on
this town would be laid at your door if an inquiry were made? The good
people here are not so ready to forgive as you may imagine. If you
have information that would help them