When the two were led away from the headquarters of the Italian commander, under guard, Uncle John’s rage had by no means subsided; but he cooled down somewhat after Hal had, to the best of his ability, attempted to show him the viewpoint of the general.

“It’s a contemptible trick,” Uncle John protested.

“Well, let it go at that, then,” said Hal helplessly.

And Uncle John did.

Now the thoughts of the two turned to Chester, for both were greatly worried about him, and their anxiety increased as the long hours passed.

So darkness came, and they lay down to sleep.  They were awake with the morning light and the first thought of each was whether any word had been received from the Italian commander in Rome.

And two hours after daylight they knew.  An orderly entered and informed them that the commander desired their presence immediately.  They followed him.

“Everything all right, general?” Hal greeted him, with a smile.

The Italian commander frowned.

“The answer to my wire will hardly gain you your freedom,” he replied.

“What, sir?” demanded Hal, in great surprise.

“Exactly,” replied the commander, this time smiling a little himself.

“What did General Ferrari say?” inquired Hal anxiously.

“Well, he didn’t say anything,” replied the Italian.  “He is no longer in Rome, but has gone to the front.  My wire did not reach him.  Consequently, I shall have to turn you over to the civil authorities here for safe-keeping.  I cannot be bothered with you.”

Hal gazed at Uncle John in dismay.

“What did I tell you?” the latter broke out.  “And you sided with him, too.  Tried to show me where he was right, didn’t you?  Well, what do you think of him now?”

In spite of the seriousness of their situation, Hal was forced to smile at Uncle John’s righteous wrath.

“It will turn out all right,” he said quietly.

“I’m glad somebody thinks so,” declared Uncle John.  “I don’t.”

Hal addressed the commander: 

“General, I can assure you that all we have said has been the truth.  You will learn so in time.  I, sir, have seen active service.  I have fought with the Belgians, the British in France and the Russians in the eastern war zone.”

“From your own accounts you must have had quite a time,” said the Italian commander dryly.  “Now, I may as well tell you that I do not believe a single word of your story and protests will avail you nothing.  Were I to follow my own inclinations, I would order you both shot as spies within the hour.  However, there is always a chance that my convictions may be wrong, which is the only thing that is saving you now.  I shall wait until I have word from General Ferrari.  Orderly!”

A subordinate entered.

“Turn these prisoners over to Colonel Brunoli.  Colonel Brunoli,” he continued, addressing Hal, “is the chief of police.  I can guarantee that you will be safe in his keeping.”