John, calculating the course by the sun, was sure that they were now going directly toward the German army and that they would pass unobserved beyond the French outposts.

The path was leading into a narrow gorge and the banks and trees would hide them from all observation.

He was confirmed in his opinion by the action of their guards.

The leader rode beside the carts and said in very good French that any one making the least outcry would be shot instantly.

No exception would be made in the case of a woman.
John knew that the threat would be kept.