"Lieutenants!" ejaculated Uncle John.
"Yes."
"Then what are you doing in French uniforms?"
"I am coming to that. Later we saw service with the British troops, and also with the Cossacks in Russia. We were captured several days ago by the Germans, and we donned these uniforms when we finally got into the French lines. To-day we came to Paris with a communication from General Joffre for the Prime Minister."
Uncle John sat straight up in his seat during this recital, so great was his surprise.
"And you have gone through all this unwounded?" he asked.
"Well, no," said Chester; "we have both been wounded, but we are all right now."
"And to-night," said Hal, "we have further work to do."
"Well," said Uncle John grimly, "I think your fighting days are over."
"Over!" echoed both lads in consternation.