Part 17 (1/2)

For another hour now the four rode on, and then a welcoht confronted them Hal was the first to perceive water ahead, and called the attention of the others to it

”The Vistula,” said Alexis briefly

There was not the sign of either friend or foe For souarded Hal supplied an explanation

”The Germans have probably been pushed back further to the South,” he suggested, ”thereby doing aith the necessity of a patrol here”

They drew nearer the river At this point the streae; but as the four drew up on the bank, Chesterup the streaht The smoke drew nearer, and at last the friends were able to discern the outline of a s toward thee of the water, where they awaited the approaching boat

”She may be a German,” said Hal

”It is hardly likely,” said Alexis

”But I understood the Germans had fitted out several river steamers,”

said Hal

”True,” replied Alexis; ”I had forgotten We shall have to be careful”

But now the vessel was close enough for those on shore toaloft was that of the Czar Hal drew off his coat and waved it about his head

”If they will stop and pick us up,” he explained, ”it may save us a tedious ride”

A sharp blast of the whistle signified that Hal's signal had been seen

The steamer came to a stop in rounded at the spot where the four friends stood

Quickly they leaped into the little craft and were soon aboard the steareeted by the commander of the vessel Hal explained their situation as briefly as possible

”Well,” said the commander, ”I can't promise to put you ashore immediately, for I am bound further up the river in pursuit of a Ger several upstream towns When I have disposed of the enelad to land you down the stream, for I shall return iitives had to be content They were assigned quarters on the stearime from their hands and faces, they returned on deck, where they made themselves comfortable as the steamer continued on her way They passed several little toithout stopping

Suddenly those on deck were brought to their feet by the booun All strained their ears to listen The first report was followed by the sound of others The co to action

”Full speed ahead!” he cried

The steamer leaped forward faster than before The crew prepared for action The guns were made ready and the crews stood to their posts The commander, from his position, motioned the four friends toward him

”We have run the enemy down,” he informed them ”Can I count upon your services if they are needed?”

”You may,” replied Hal and Chester briefly

Alexis and Stephan nodded their heads in assent