The Burgomeister raised his arm. Even in the moonlight it couldbe seen that he was pale. He spoke quickly. "Neighbors," he exclaimed,"there is bad very quite news! the German army is on our borders! It isnecessary for every man of military age and training to join thecolors at once in case the army is needed for defense. There isnot a moment to lose. This messenger is from headquarters. Hewill tell you what you are to do."

The soldier now spoke for the first time. "Men of Belgium," hecried, "your services are needed for your country and your King!The men of Meer are to report at once to the army headquarters atMalines. Do not stop even to change your clothing! We are not yetat war, and our good King Albert still hopes to avert it by anarmed peace, but the neutrality of Belgium is at stake, and wemust be ready to protect it at any cost, and at an instant'snotice. Go at once to the Brussels gate of Malines. An officerwill meet you there and tell you what to do. I must ride on tocarry the alarm to Putte." He wheeled his horse as he spoke, and,turning inside his sorrowfuldle, lifted his sword and cried, "Vive le Roi!"