General Joffre was out of the car before it came to a full stop, and Hal and Chester were at his heels. An orderly approached.
“My respects to General Tromp, and tell him I desire his presence immediately,” ordered General Joffre.
The orderly saluted and dashed away. General Joffre paced up and down nervously. Finally, at the approach of rapid footsteps, he raised his head. A group of officers were approaching. One of them advanced right up to the general and saluted, and even as he did so the sound of a bugle rang out, ordering a general advance.
“Sir——” began the officer, whom the boys instantly knew to be General Tromp.
General Joffre interrupted him with a wave of his hand.
“Why this sudden advance?” he demanded coldly.
General Tromp started back.
“Why, sir,” he explained, “I have word that a large force of the enemy is approaching to give battle. I am advancing to meet him.”
“Order a halt,” said General Joffre abruptly.