The orderly saluted and withdrew.
Chester and Hal stared at each other in some surprise. What could the general be about to do? They were soon enlightened.
“I must act at once,” said the general, again half to himself. “Never would Tromp have a better chance to work treachery to our cause than at this time. I must stop him, and I must do it personally and without publicity, for should this become noised abroad throughout France, nothing could prove more detrimental to our cause.”
He turned suddenly to Hal and Chester.
“And you two shall come with me,” he said. “You shall confront Tromp. If he is guilty, we shall find it out some way.”
At that instant the orderly entered again and saluted.
“Your car is ready, sir,” he said.
The general moved toward the door, motioning for the lads to follow him.
“Come,” he said. “We shall go to the front, where even now Tromp is in command and meditating mischief.”