human
Uncle John!
gpt
We seem always to be in trouble when he appears,
human
What's the meaning of this?
gpt
The meaning of what, sir?
human
What are you doing with these two lads?
gpt
They are under arrest, sir.
human
What! ejaculated Uncle John.
gpt
Under arrest, and what for?
human
They are spies.
gpt
Spies! The good man staggered back. He forced a smile.
human
You are joking with me,
gpt
I never joke of serious matters, he said quietly.
human
But what interest have you in these prisoners?
gpt
Well, I have considerable interest, was the reply.
human
One of them happens to be my nephew. What have they been doing?
gpt
I couldn't say as to that. All I know is that they are spies.
human
You're crazy, shouted Uncle John, now becoming angry.
gpt
They are British army officers, and American citizens.
human
Crazy, am I? he demanded.
gpt
March!
human
Here, hold on a minute, gasped Uncle John.
gpt
I didn't mean to ruffle your feelings; but one of those boys is my nephew. I tell you they are British officers.
human
I trust they will be able to prove it,
gpt
What? demanded Uncle John.
human
Why?
gpt
Because, replied the officer with a pleasant smile,
human
Shot!
gpt
Exactly. That is the usual treatment accorded spies.
human
But I tell you--
gpt
You can tell the rest to General Ferrari, said the Italian officer.
human
Forward, men.
gpt
Don't worry, Uncle John, Chester called back to him.
human
We'll get out of this all right. Tell mother to have no fear.
gpt
I'll see the ambassador! shouted Uncle John.
human
I'll get you out of this. I'll show these confounded Italians they are not half as big as Uncle Sam.
gpt
Poor old Uncle John, said Chester to Hal.
human
He does get excited so easily. I'll bet the ambassador is due for an unpleasant half hour.
gpt
I'd give a whole lot to be there to hear what transpires,
human
Where are we going?
gpt
You'll find out soon enough,
human
You're very civil and courteous, to be sure,
gpt
I can see no reason for being courteous to a spy,
human
Perhaps not, returned the lad;
gpt
What! exclaimed the officer, stepping back.
human
Pull my nose! Such American impudence! I have a notion to pull your nose right here.
gpt
I wouldn't if I were you,
human
And what have you to say about it?
gpt
Oh, nothing, replied Chester.
human
Just a kindly word of warning; that's all.