“You’re right,” Hal agreed, somewhat sheepishly. “Where are we going to get them?”
“The general always leaves his sword and revolvers on the table in the hall before retiring,” said Chester. “Then I noticed another pair of swords hanging on the wall there. Also the lieutenant invariably leaves his weapons on the parlor table. Careless, I say, but lucky for us.”
Chester’s thoughtfulness in hiding the articles they had appropriated stood them in good stead, as it turned out that evening. General Strauss, upon his arrival home, went straight to his private office, saying that he would be in to dinner in a few moments.
Accordingly the others went in and sat down at the table without waiting for him. A moment later the old general came storming into the room.
“My maps!” he cried. “My maps! Has anyone seen my maps?”
The lieutenant jumped to his feet.
“Have you lost them, sir?” he asked.
“Lost ’em? Lost ’em? Do you think I would ask for them if I knew where they were?”
“Perhaps you left them at headquarters, sir.”