Hal and Chester made a profound bow.
"I have been informed," continued the Prime Minister, "that you bear a message from General Joffre containing proof of information you obtained bearing on a plot to kidnap the President of France."
"Yes, sir," replied Hal, and from his pocket produced the document, which he passed to the Prime Minister.
The latter broke the seal and ran through it hurriedly.
"Hm-m-m," he said at last. "Not as much information as I believe we shall need."
"But surely you know enough to protect the President," said Hal.
The Prime Minister looked at him somewhat coldly, and Hal drew back, confused at having been so bold. The Prime Minister touched a bell upon a desk and an attendant entered.
"Have General Gallieni summoned here immediately," he instructed.
The attendant bowed and departed. For half an hour the Prime Minister paced up and down the room, deep in thought. The lads stood silent, neither caring to interrupt his meditations. Finally the attendant again entered the room, and announced:
"General Gallieni!"