"That is the right spirit, my man. But you are, undoubtedly, a stranger here," said the Captain.

"Yes, but I am a Belgian, from Brabant," answered Pierre.

Pierre's prompt action was the signal for an immediate respond from a dozen or more.

"I shall be back in a few minutes, and I designate you to enroll the volunteers," said the Captain, addressing Pierre.

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Pierre shouted: "Come on, boys, the King needs you."

The recruits came forward and signed their names. In an incredibly short time the Captain reappeared clothed in his uniform, and he proceeded to business at once.

"Now, men," he said, "without wasting time, get firearms—anything that will shoot, and report to me within ten minutes."

The whole village was now a scene of the greatest activity. A varied assortment of guns and pistols were produced which were hurriedly inspected by the Captain and accepted by him.

"Line up, my men," he ordered. "Belgium is at war with Germany, and our soil has been invaded. It is the duty of every one to assist in this crisis. I shall administer the oath to each of you. This makes our company a fighting force in the King's service and in case of capture entitles you to the treatment accorded to prisoners of war."

Pierre exhibited a troubled look in his face, and Ralph observed it. "I am afraid," he said, "that the Captain will not allow you to accompany us."

This information was the first shock to the boys. Pierre was right. The Captain, while sympathizing greatly, could not be moved. He pointed out that their mission was a dangerous one, and that it would be impossible for them to accompany the squad. The boys were almost heart-broken, but there was no hope for them. The final good-byes were given, and Captain Moreau's little band disappeared in the darkness toward the north.

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CHAPTER IV THE WORK OF A SPY

THE WORK OF A SPY

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