it happens we weren't killed also."

"Stubbs," said Hal, "I told you you were always a kill-joy. You can pick
more flaws in things than any one I can think of. We'll tell the
Bulgarians that story and take a chance on its passing muster."

"Then we may as well say our prayers now," said Stubbs mournfully.

"But what will we tell them we are?" asked Chester.

"Americans," replied Hal. "Caught here by the retreat. We were just
making our way out of the country. I'll do the talking."

"All right," said Chester, and added: "Sh-h-h, here they come now!"




CHAPTER XXVII.

PRISONERS.


Came a knock at the door.

"You answer it, Miss Ellison, please," said Hal, adding: "If you are
questioned, tell the same story you told Chester."

The girl nodded and moved to the door without a sign of nervousness.
Directly she could be heard in conversation with one of the officers.