You see, with the heliograph the flashes are
centered. You've got to be almost on a direct line with them, or not more
than fifty yards off the centre line, to see them at all, even a mile away.
But anyone can see flags, and read messages, unless they're in code. And if
these people are German spies, the code wouldn't help them. Having it
discovered that they were sending messages at all would spoil their plans."
"I see. Of course, though--that's just what you said. It was really just by
accident that we saw them flashing."
Then they came to the house where they expected to make their observation.
It was occupied by an old gentleman, who came out to see what was wanted
and stood behind the servant who opened the door. At the sight of their
uniforms he drew himself up very straight, and saluted. But, formal as he
was, there was a smile in his eyes.
"Well, boys," he said, "what can I do for you? On His Majesty's service, I
suppose?"
"Yes, sir," said Dick. "We'd like to go up in your tower room, if you don't
mind."
"Scouting, eh?" said the old gentleman, mystified. "Do you expect to locate
the enemy's cavalry from my tower room? Well, well--up with you! You can do
no harm."
Dick was inclined to resent the old gentleman's failure to take them
seriously, but Harry silenced his protest.
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