"In that case, I have nothing to say," said Uncle John. "But remember we are due to sail for home to-morrow."
"Oh, we can wait over for the next ship," said Chester.
"Perhaps," said Uncle John, with a twinkle in his eye. "We shall see what your mothers have to say about that."
Hal now bethought himself to introduce Uncle John to his friends. This accomplished, the American ambassador announced that he would be moving, and took his departure. The others Uncle John invited to have lunch with him in a nearby hotel.
Over the table, Hal asked Major Derevaux what he was doing in Rome.
"I don't know as it is my secret now," replied the major. "I am here with a despatch from General Joffre. I cannot say exactly what the despatch contains, but at a guess I would say it has to do with the entrance of Italy into the war, and plans for a possible simultaneous advance between all the troops opposed to the Austro-German army."
"I see," said Hal. "That would be a great thing. I wish we were going back to the front with you."
"Well, you're not," said Uncle John briefly.
"We won't argue about it," said Chester, smiling. "But you never can tell what will happen."
Uncle John changed the subject abruptly. When the conversation reached this stage he always felt uncomfortable.