Page:War's dark frame (IA warsdarkframe00camp).pdf/194

162 His pleasure seemed scarcely more out of keeping than if he had spoken of rabbits.

"Pass out the boy that did it," the corporal said.

The grin failed. The rifle was offered reluctantly. While we glanced through the telescopic sights the sniper remained crouched, as if ready to spring upon us if we took any liberties with his treasure.

He didn't relax until he had his gun in his hands again. Then he dragged it in front of him and turned away. He was exactly like a child whose favourite toy seems threatened by the incomprehensible curiosity of a grown-up. He uncovered a hole large enough for the sighting of a rifle.

"Not so fast," the corporal warned. And to us he apologised.

"The Huns are pretty sharp at this game, too. With the curtain up they might put a lucky shot through that hole into one of you.'

He dropped the dirty canvas and rubbed his hands. He was as proud of Owen as Owen had been of his rifle. Why not? Five Huns! First and last I have heard a good deal of argument as to the value of this sniping. That did seem a good bag for one man. As a rule, however, some of the French argue such work makes the Germans too wary. It is more profitable,