Page 165 - A Hero of Liége

chateau of Hamoir, then ascended a steep hill, the engine knocking
alarmingly, and rushing through the village of Louveigne suddenly came in

sight of an immense military encampment. Far to left and right of the road
stretched the lines of the Germans encircling Liege. Tents, carts, caissons,

batteries of artillery, men on horse and on foot extended as far as the eye
could reach.

But there was no sign of active operations. Troops were drilling on open
spaces, practising the ridiculous goose-step; men off duty were strolling

about. Smoke ascended from innumerable travelling kitchens. Horsemen
were riding this way and that: a motor cyclist was dashing away to the east.

When this spectacle flashed upon the view, Kenneth slowed down. His face
was pale.

"Push through and trust to luck?" he said to Granger at his side.

"There's nothing else for it, with pursuers hot on our track," replied
Granger. "Speed about ten miles, but be ready to let her out."

They went on. Curious glances were thrown at them by troops of cavalry
off-saddled by the roadside. Uhlans in an armoured car! They must be on

special service. With his heart in his mouth Kenneth followed the road for a
full mile through the lines. The country became clearer of men as they

proceeded, but as Kenneth was again increasing speed he noticed a strong
force of infantry posted ahead of them at some distance to the right of the
road.

"They are supports," said Pariset. "We shall find a battery ahead."

In less than two miles they came to a number of ammunition and transport
wagons, parked in the rear of a battery of six guns. A patrol on the road

signalled to them to halt. Kenneth pulled up, but before the sergeant could
address him, he asked urgently:

"Where is the commandant? Quick! I haven't a minute to lose."