Part 32 (2/2)

”Why, no,” she said. ”I admitted you myself.”'

”But--but--” said Chester, nonplussed.

”I'm not surprised at you, Chester,” said Hal. ”Cannot a woman or a girl wear a disguise as well as you?”

”By Jove!” said Chester. ”I hadn't thought of that. So that was it, eh?”

”Yes, that was it,” said the girl.

The Canadians now were introduced around, after which the young girl said.

”Come. I may as well show you to your hiding places. It is as well for you to be there as here. There is no telling when some of the Germans may arrive.”

”But aren't you afraid to be among them alone?” asked Hal.

”Pshaw!” exclaimed the girl. ”Who would hurt a harmless old woman?”

She led the way into the room beyond, walked across and pressed a hidden spring in the side of the wall. Instantly a secret door moved open.

”It can be opened from within as well,” said the girl. ”You may have a light here if you wish. The door is so constructed that the rays cannot be seen from without. I shall leave you now. My only injunction is, do not talk too loud. I'll bring you food and water in the morning.”

She bade them good-night and took her leave.

The friends talked in low tones for some moments, then stretched out on the floor and soon were fast asleep.

CHAPTER XXIV

ANTOINETTE ”MAKES GOOD”

True to her word, Antoinette appeared with food and drink early the following morning. She was again disguised as an old woman, and Hal and Chester could scarcely believe that a wig and a few dabs of paint could possibly conceal the girlish face they had seen the night before.

”I have had word to prepare a big dinner for a dozen officers of the general, staff,” the girl informed Major Derevaux, ”so it may be that I shall have the necessary information by nightfall.”

”Let us hope so,” said the major devoutly.

”And let us hope that you are not risking your life in getting it,”

said Hal.

”Thank you,” said Antoinette. ”I a.s.sure you I shall be very careful.

Now, you must all remain here quietly today. You may be able to leave soon after dark.”

She left the hiding place and closed the secret door behind her.

”And after we leave the house, then what?” asked Hal of Major Derevaux.

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