Quickly the French commander ran his eyes over the paper; then leaned back in his chair. For perhaps five minutes he retained this position, uttering no word, apparently deep in thought.
Then he arose, and with a wave of his hand dismissed all his staff, motioning for Hal and Chester to remain. The tent cleared, the general spoke:
“Now tell me your story,” he said briefly.
Hal did so, and the general listened attentively, without asking a single question until Hal had concluded his story.
“It must be true,” he said at length, half to himself. “I remember well that there was something mysterious in the traitor Dersi’s escape. It was never explained satisfactorily. Yes, it must be true.”
He was silent again for some moments, then finally spoke again:
“And I would have staked anything I possess on Tromp’s honor. He has uncommon ability. Still, there has always been something queer about him. Yes, it must be true.”
Suddenly the general sprang to his feet with agility that Hal and Chester had not believed him capable of, and struck a small bell upon his desk a sharp tap. Immediately an orderly entered.
“Have my car brought here instantly,” commanded the general briefly.