yed there, and living in the town. If the German
government were really back of this Belgian works, as seemed possible,
they would want to have mostly reliable men on guard, who, in case of
sudden emergency, could throw off their workmen's garb and show
themselves in their true colors, as regularly enlisted soldiers, serving
their superiors while plying their regular trade.

When, therefore, the boys heard loud outcries, after entering the town,
and made the distressing discovery that there was a runaway approaching
them, the first thought Rob had was that they must keep out of the way,
and not interfere, lest by so doing they attract attention toward
themselves.

With this discreet plan of action rapidly forming in his mind, Rob was
even in the act of hastily drawing both his chums back behind a wall
until all the excitement had subsided, when he made a discovery that
brought his scheme to a halt.

It was, after all, only a pony that had been seized with an attack of
blind staggers, and was now dashing frantically away, with a little
basket-cart dragging back and forth at his heels; but in that cart Rob
saw was a frightened child.

In that moment, Rob struggled with a grave question. To show themselves
before a crowd such as would likely gather, was full of danger, not only
to themselves, but for their mission as well. At the same time there was
a something within his soul that refused to avoid the responsibility by
shutting his eyes.

He could not do it. He knew that child was in deadly peril, for, small
as the pony might be, just then he was acting like a little demon. If
he allowed the runaway to go by, and something dreadful happened, how
could he ever reconcile his action with his vows as a true-blue scout?

So Rob's mind was made up.

"Merritt, we must save that poor little child, come what will!" he
exclaimed; and that loyal comrade, forgetting all else for humanity's
sake, instantly cried:

"We will, Rob! Hurry and get on one side, while I look out for the
other!"

CHAPTER XXVII.

CONCLUSION.

"Where do I come in? Won't you let me help?" bawled Tubby, hurrying
after his two chums as fast as his fat legs would carry him.

Neither of the others paid the slightest attention to him. Just then
Tubby was about as useless as a fifth wheel to a wagon. He was so clumsy
that if he attempted to take a hand in the rescue work the chances were
Rob and Merritt would have to spend a portion of their ti