Wrapped tightly in a great fur overcoat that the officer had insisted on lending him, Hal snuggled back comfortably in the large automobile as it sped over the ground toward General French’s headquarters.
The chauffeur was a speed demon and the huge machine covered the ground much more quickly than the one in which the little party of British had started on their mission. It was not long, therefore, before the lad found himself descending from the car. Another moment and he once more stood before his commander.
“So, you got back safely, eh,” exclaimed General French. “Young Crawford gave me your report, and I was afraid that you would be captured. Did you learn anything further?”
“Yes, sir,” Hal made reply. “I have learned the number of men in each command, their positions and all details.”
“What!” exclaimed General French in great surprise.
“Yes, sir,” continued Hal, and reaching in his pocket he drew out the documents given him by the German officer. “Here they are, sir.”
General French took the papers from the lad’s hand, and glanced at them quickly. After a brief perusal, he laid his hand on Hal’s shoulder.
“You have done well,” he said quietly. “I shall not forget it. You may go now, for I doubt not that your friend is greatly worried over you. I will say this: You have rendered an invaluable service to England—one that the King shall hear of. I have already taken steps to thwart this German coup, and if we are successful the credit will be mainly due you.”
Hal saluted and with glowing heart left the general’s tent.
“Now to find Chester,” he said.