ver to the Germans. This part of the
country has been taken over by the Nazi gang." Allison spoke slowly.
"The general hates the Nazis. Figure it out for yourself."

"An' suppose he pops up with a regiment o' soldiers to take you to a
camp about five minutes before our parole is up?" O'Malley asked.

"He could do that anyway," Stan answered. "We've waited a month. A few
more days won't kill us. I have a feeling Allison is right."

"The Italians have thrown Mussolini out, perhaps they will start
throwing the Germans out," Allison said.

"They wouldn't have a chance," O'Malley answered.

"I guess you're right about that, but something's up. I'm going to wait
and see." Stan walked to the balcony rail and seated himself.

That night at dinner the Bolero brothers were quite gay. And for the
next few days they were always around, but always friendly and polite.
Stan wondered why they were not at the front. Italy certainly needed
every pilot she had. He did not think that the officers had been
detailed to watch them.

The parole day came and a guard arrived in the morning. The three Yanks
saw a squad of Italian soldiers headed by a young officer halt in the
yard below. O'Malley sat on the rail, watching. The young officer came
to the balcony alone.

"Which one is Lieutenant O'Malley?" he asked.

O'Malley grinned at him. "Sure, an' that's me. I'm glad you dropped in.
Tell General Bolero that I am givin' my parole, though it is against me
better judgment."

The officer bowed. "I am pleased," he said. "I will report this to the
general." He bowed again and turned on his heel.

Stan looked at O'Malley. "I thought you'd get some sense into that
shaggy head of yours."

"We'll rot right here," O'Malley said with a scowl. "But the likes o'
you has need o' someone to look out for you."

"Thanks," Stan said. "You are very thoughtful."

CHAPTER VIII

ESCAPE

The three Yanks were sitting on their balcony restlessly watching the
activity in the German camp below. They were beginning to wonder if
General Bolero ever meant to release them from their promise. His sons
still remained at the villa, but they never mentioned the war. Suddenly
Lorenzo burst out on the balcony. He halted and lifted both hands
excitedly.

"Italy has surrendered!" he announced. "You are free men!"

Before the Yanks could reply, Arno and Tony rushed in. They were very
excited.

"This is the hour we have waited for," Tony shouted. "Now