While Alexis stood off the foe the lads repaired the damage to the
machine, but when they finally succeeded in dragging the huge Cossack
aboard and once more headed toward home, they found that their friend was
wounded unto death. He died as the aeroplane sped over the North Sea.

In Russia both lads had been decorated with the Cross of St. George by
the Czar of Russia himself--this for their bravery and daring.

Hal and Chester were both exponents of the manly art of self-defense, and
more than once their skill in the fistic art had stood them to good
advantage. They were also proficient in the use of the revolver and
sword. They had returned from Russia with a dispatch for Sir John French
from the Russian Grand Duke, a message so important that the Russian
commander-in-chief would not flash it by wireless for fear that it might
be intercepted by the Germans, and the code deciphered.

Hal and Chester went at once to the quarters assigned them, where they
immediately threw themselves down to rest. They were tired out, as the
journey had occupied days, and they had scarcely closed their eyes during
that time. They had remained in England only long enough to have the body
of Alexis buried with fitting honors, and had then set out for France
immediately.

It was dark when the two lads were aroused by the sound of a bugle
blowing the call to arms. Both were quickly on their feet and dashed
through the darkness to where they could make out the form of their
commander, surrounded by other members of his staff.

"Something up!" cried Hal as they hurried forward.