"Cannot go home!" exclaimed Mrs. Paine. "Why?"
"Because we have duties to perform here," replied Hal quietly.
"Duties? What have you to do with this war? You are an American."
"Nevertheless," said Hal, "we have taken the oath of allegiance, and we must stay, at least until we have accomplished the mission we are now on."
"What is the mission?" asked his mother.
"I am sorry, mother, but I cannot say," was Hal's reply.
"Is it dangerous?"
"Well, not particularly so," said Hal.
"And you won't tell me what it is?"
"I cannot. It is not my secret to tell. It belongs to France."