Page 99 - A Hero of Liége

"We can't destroy the bridge with bombs," said Pariset, "but it's just
possible to do it with the gelignite if you are game."

"What's your idea?" asked Kenneth.

"There's clearly a block on the line somewhere to the north. It may be a
long time before it is cleared, giving us just the opportunity we want.

There's a path through the fields on the left bank, leading to the bridge. It
seems fairly covered. My idea is that you should go down to the bridge

with the gelignite."

"But it is guarded," Kenneth interrupted.

"Don't be impatient. I was going on to say that I will fly over the bridge and

stampede the guards. That will give you a chance to creep up. Your
uniform will protect you long enough for the purpose, I hope. The Germans
won't suspect you until the explosion occurs. Then it will be a ticklish

moment. The fellows who have got out of the train may fire at you; but
they are a good distance away, and you ought to have time to rush back

under cover before they can do any damage. I'll be ready to pick you up.
Or, if you like, I'll take the gelignite and you drop the bombs."

"No. I've had no practice at that. I'll take my chance. But we're about two
miles from the bridge, I fancy. It will take me at least half an hour to get

there, not knowing the way. Anything may happen in that time."

"I'll come with you until we find a guide. There will be plenty of time for

me to come back to the aeroplane and still reach the bridge before you. I
will give you half an hour from now before I fly off."

They set off together, walking rapidly over the fields. Turning into a lane,
they came suddenly face to face with a farm boy of about sixteen years. His

jaw dropped, and a look of terror showed in his eyes when he saw the
German uniforms. Pariset spoke to him rapidly in Walloon, and gave him

money. Thus reassured, he agreed to conduct Kenneth across the hill to the
path which Pariset had mentioned.