"Can I be of any assistance?" asked Colonel Fuesco, stepping forward.
"If you can, we shall call on you," replied Hal.
"Good," said the colonel, and, drawing out a card, he scribbled an address on it. "You will find me there," he said. "I shall remain at my quarters in the hopes that I may be given a hand in the game."
The lads shook hands with the general and walked to the door.
"Wait a moment, boys," said Major Derevaux. "I want a few words with the general, and then I shall be at liberty to go with you."
"If it is all the same to you, Major Derevaux," said the general, "I would prefer to postpone our conference until this evening. I have several matters that require my immediate attention."
Major Derevaux accepted this postponement graciously, and announced that he would accompany the boys at once. As they would have passed out, the general's orderly once more entered the room.
"The American ambassador is without, sir," he said, "and demands an immediate interview with you."
General Ferrari turned to Colonel Fuesco.
"You see what trouble you have brought down on my head," he said, with a smile. "I won't bother to see the ambassador now," he said to his orderly. "I shall send these lads to greet him."