Slowly he counted off the sixty seconds, and then stepped through the door.

CHAPTER XXIV.

“Out of the frying Pan—­”

“This way,” came a low voice, as the lad reached the top of the steps.

It was now after nightfall, and the street was very dark, but Chester could dimly make out the form of the officer a few yards ahead of him.

“Follow me,” came the voice again, “and remember that I have my gun ready.  Just so surely as you make a false move I will kill you.”

Chester made no reply, but followed his captor down the street.  At the first corner the officer stopped and allowed Chester to come up with him.

“I guess we can walk along together now,” he said, as they turned the corner.  “It is hardly likely that they suspect me.”

“I am sure I can never thank you enough,” said Chester fervently.

“Never mind that,” said the German.  “I don’t want any thanks.  But it is a poor gentleman who cannot return a favor.”

The two continued their way in silence.  They came at length to a little house, setting well back on a dimly lighted street, and here the German turned in, Chester accompanying him.  The officer let himself into the house with a night key, and the two ascended the stairs, at the top of which the officer led the lad into a small but comfortable room.

“Just make yourself at home,” he told Chester, “It isn’t much, but it’s the best I can offer.  Here you will have to stay till after to-morrow night, or at least until we have occupied the city.”

From a little cupboard the officer produced some sandwiches and two bottles of beer.

“Help yourself,” he said.

“Thanks,” said Chester.  “I’ll try one of the sandwiches, but I don’t believe I care for any of the beer.”

“What’s the matter?” demanded his host.  “Don’t you drink beer?”

“No,” said Chester, “and I don’t want to start now.”

“Suit yourself,” said the German, pouring himself a glass.  “Have one of these sandwiches, anyhow.”

Chester ate hungrily, for it had been many hours since he had tasted food.  The light meal disposed of, the German lighted a cigarette, and the two leaned back for a talk.  They discussed various topics for several hours, and then the German said: 

“Well, I guess it is time for me to turn in.  You will bunk in the corner there,” pointing, “and I’ll sleep in the other corner.  But first I must tie you up.  It wouldn’t do to have you escape, you know, for in spite of the fact that I am your friend, I am first of all a servant of the Kaiser.”

He produced some rope, and soon Chester was once more bound securely, but not uncomfortably.  The lad lay down and closed his eyes, and a moment later the German also turned in.

Chester was in no mood for sleep.  He had too much on his mind to think of slumber.  Several moments more and the deep regular breathing of the officer gave evidence that he was sound asleep.