Here Captain Eberhardt briefly explained the details of
the capture.
"And you say they were in civilian attire?" asked the general.
"Yes, sir."
"Then they shall be given a trial, but unless they can show good reason
for their actions they will be shot."
"But, General," said the captain, "I have told you that they wore
civilian attire simply to get through our lines. I can vouch for the fact
that they are not spies."
"You can make your statement before the trial board, sir," replied the
commander briefly. "I may as well say, however, that I do not believe you
will be able to do them much good. You know our rules are ironclad."
The lads returned to Captain Eberhardt's tent, the general ordering
him to guard them until they should appear for trial early the
following morning.
"I am afraid I cannot be of much help to you," said the captain. "I
am sorry."
"Never mind," replied Hal. "We are grateful for what you have done for
us. Of course we know that you are governed by a sense of duty in
capturing us, and we would have been forced to do the same had we been in
your position.
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