“Hope he has things as easy as I did,” said Hal to himself, and sat down to await his friend’s return.
When Chester entered the general’s private room, which he found unlocked, he went straight to the general’s desk. He knew that maps and valuable papers were kept there, because the general had once referred to them as being there while at supper.
The desk was locked, but this did not disconcert the lad, for he had expected it would be. Drawing a small buttonhook that he always carried from his pocket, he inserted it in the keyhole. After several unsuccessful attempts the lock finally turned, and Chester quietly threw up the top.
Walking to the door and making sure that no one was near, the lad returned to the desk. Quickly he looked over the assortment of papers, and at length a smile lighted up his face. Evidently he had found what he was in search of, for he quickly thrust a paper in his pocket.
He did not leave at once, but continued to rifle the contents of the general’s desk. Finally he appropriated several more documents, which he also thrust into his pocket.
There was the sound of a door slammed on the floor below. Quickly the lad closed the desk, and, walking softly to the door, peered out. There was no one in sight. Closing the door quietly behind him, Chester walked rapidly down the hall to his own room, where Hal was waiting for his return.
“Did you get it?” asked Hal, as Chester entered the room and closed the door behind him.
“Yes,” replied Chester; “and you?”
“They are under the bed,” said Hal, with a grin. “I believe I would make a first-class burglar.”
“And I,” agreed Chester. “However, ‘All’s fair in love and war,’ you know.”