But it is a
poor gentleman who cannot return a favor."
The two continued their way in silence. They came at length to a little
house, setting well back on a dimly lighted street, and here the German
turned in, Chester accompanying him. The officer let himself into the
house with a night key, and the two ascended the stairs, at the top of
which the officer led the lad into a small but comfortable room.
"Just make yourself at home," he told Chester, "It isn't much, but it's
the best I can offer. Here you will have to stay till after to-morrow
night, or at least until we have occupied the city."
From a little cupboard the officer produced some sandwiches and two
bottles of beer.
"Help yourself," he said.
"Thanks," said Chester. "I'll try one of the sandwiches, but I don't
believe I care for any of the beer."
"What's the matter?" demanded his host. "Don't you drink beer?"
"No," said Chester, "and I don't want to start now."
"Suit yourself," said the German, pouring himself a glass. "Have one of
these sandwiches, anyhow."
Chester ate hungrily, for it had been many hours since he had tasted
food. The light meal disposed of, the German lighted a cigarette, and the
two leaned back for a talk. They discussed various topics for several
hours, and then the German said:
"Well, I guess it is time for me to turn in. You will bunk in the
corner there," pointing, "and I'll sleep in the other corner. But first
I must tie you up. It wouldn't do to have you escape, you know, for in
spite of the fact that I am your friend, I am first of all a servant of
the Kaiser.
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