“And so you are the two who created such havoc in the ranks of the enemy,” he exclaimed when Chester had concluded his account of their adventures. “I learned through some of my scouts that a wild engine had dealt a heavy blow to the Germans, but I had never thought that you two were aboard it.”
Then it was that Hal told his commander of his encounter with young Dersi, and of what the latter had told him concerning General Tromp, of General Joffre’s staff.
“What!” cried General French, springing to his feet. “Tromp a traitor! Why, it is unbelievable. General Joffre has entire confidence in his ability and integrity.”
“Nevertheless it is true, there can be no doubt of that,” said Hal quietly. “Dersi told us with almost his dying breath, and he certainly was repentant at the end.”
“Oh, I do not doubt your word,” General French assured Hal, “but it seems impossible. Something must be done at once.”
“Will you allow me to make a suggestion, sir?” asked Hal respectfully.
“By all means,” was the general’s reply.
“Then I would suggest that you send word of General Tromp’s treachery to General Joffre by special messenger, and not trust to the field wireless, for in that way Tromp might learn that he was suspected and make his escape.”
“An excellent idea,” said General French. “It shall be acted upon at once.” He turned away, signifying that the interview was at an end.
But Hal had no intention of letting such a piece of work slip through his fingers.