"We can at least have a try at it," said Chester, with a smile.
"We'll get it if it is humanly possible," agreed Hal.
"I am more confident of success than I would be if the mission were in other hands," said General Petain, quietly.
"And when do you wish us to start, sir?" asked Hal.
"Immediately," was the reply, "though I believe it would be better to wait until dark."
"And you would suggest an aeroplane?" asked Hal.
"I leave the means to you," returned the general. "I'll give you a written order that will put anything in the French lines at your disposal, aeroplane, automobile or horses. You may take your choice."
The general turned to his desk and scribbled on a piece of paper. To what he had written he affixed his signature and then passed the paper to Hal.
"I have no further instructions," he said. "But, be as quick as you can, and be careful."
He arose and extended a hand to each lad. He had come to be very fond of them, and he patted each on the back affectionately.