Page 27 - A Hero of Liége

"How did it come out?" asked Frieda, when Kenneth was alone with her in
the drawing-room.

"They were talking under my window. He accused me of eavesdropping. I

couldn't help hearing them at first; and when I found out what they were at,
of course I listened. You have come back alone?"

"Yes. I met Father. He says that your government has sent us an ultimatum,
and war is certain. You must go home at once. Father sent me to tell you."

"All right. He sneered about my doing wonders for my country. I'll do
something better than spying. I'll volunteer for the Flying Corps."

"Oh, don't do that! It's so dangerous."

"No more dangerous than being in the firing line."

"But why do anything at all--of that sort, I mean? War is
horrible--horrible!"

"It is, for everyone. I'm sure none of our people wanted it. But if we're in
for it, every fellow who can do anything will be required, and you wouldn't

wish me to skulk at home while others fight?"

"I'd rather you should fight than spy. You must make haste. Martial law is
proclaimed. Father called at the station, and found that there will be a train
at half-past nine to-night: it will probably be the last. And the stationmaster

said that anyone who wanted to secure a seat must be early, for there's sure
to be a great rush. Have you done your packing?"

"Yes; there's only one bag I need take. The less baggage the better. I'll run
down to the station and get my ticket now, to make sure of it."

"Don't be long. Father will be back to dinner, and he wants to say goodbye

to you, and to give you some messages for business friends in London."