"Have you the man in mind?" asked General Pershing.
"Yes, sir. A man named McKenzie, a private in our troop. He's a Canadian, and has seen years of active service. Also, as I happen to know, he speaks German fluently."
"I shall give you a paper authorizing his indefinite leave of absence," said General Pershing.
He scribbled a few words on a piece of paper, and passed it to the lad. The boys drew themselves to attention, saluted, and left.
"A pretty ticklish piece of business," said Chester quietly, as they made their way to their own quarters.
"Rather," said Hal dryly; "and still it must be done. The safety of America depends upon the success of our mission. It may be well that it has been entrusted to us rather than to older men. We are less likely to be suspected if we reach Berlin safely. Besides, we have been there before, and are somewhat familiar with the city."
"Yes," said Chester grimly, "we've been there several times before. I recall that we went there once very much against our will—prisoners."
"Well, we didn't stay very long," said Hal.
"Let's hope we don't stay for keeps this time either," said Chester.
"To tell the truth, I don't think much of this spy business myself."
"Somebody has to do it," Hal declared.