decided
to remain at the farmhouse. But what is the matter?"

This last was called forth by the signs of distress and excitement
plainly visible on the girl's face, which Chester, in his pleasure at
seeing her again, had not perceived at first.

"I am staying here with a friend," the girl explained rapidly. "My uncle
ordered me to leave the farmhouse and come here. I am indeed fortunate to
have encountered you."

"Why?" demanded Chester.

"Listen," said the girl. And, taking Chester by the arm, she bent close
to him and whispered:

"In my friend's home there are two men, presumably civilians. But I know
better. I heard them plotting. They are going to send word to the German
commander, telling him the exact position of the Belgian troops, the weak
spots in the defense, and all other details."

"What!" exclaimed Chester. "Spies right here in the midst of the
Belgian army?"

"Yes," replied the girl. "I overheard them talking in the room next to
mine. I didn't stop to hear any more. I ran out of the house, and was on
my way to the general, when I saw you. Then I thought I had better tell
you what I had learned."

"And I am glad you told me!" said Chester. "Come, lead me to the house
and I shall try and gather fuller details before reporting to the
general. It may be that there are other spies in the city, and that, by
listening, I can learn something concerning them."

Chester for the moment put aside all thoughts of Hal. He considered it
his first duty to serve the country for which he had already gone through
so much. Hal was in good hands. So, walking slowly, Chester and Edna made
their way to the house where the girl was living.

"I am not particularly fond of playing eavesdropper," Chester told the
girl, as he stealthily followed her up the stairs; "but it is all in the
line of duty, so I guess it is up to me."

From Miss Johnson's room could be heard the subdued sounds of voices in
the next room.

"Rather unthoughtful of them to discuss such business in such a place, to
say the least," remarked Chester. "Apparently they forget that even the
walls have ears."

The lad laid his ear to the door between the two rooms. Edna stood close
behind him, and the two listened eagerly.

"Well, then it is all settled," came a low voice from the room beyond.
"You report to the chief immediately. I'll remain here an hour, so that
we shall not arouse suspicion by going together. But tell the chief I
shall be on han