"It is fortunate that General Rhodes brought you with him," General Pershing continued. "Still, it may not be so fortunate for him, for I am about to deprive him of your services. I take it that you will survive the separation, though," and the commander-in-chief smiled.
"We are always glad to serve in whatever way we may, sir," said Hal.
"Good!" said General Pershing. "Then I shall avail myself of your services. Several hours ago I was in communication with Marshal Foch, who is now in Soissons. General Rhodes informs me that he has made you acquainted with the facts that seem to indicate an early cessation of hostilities, so I need not amplify here. Now, Marshal Foch, anticipating that Germany may really sue for peace, has asked my advice in the matter of armistice terms pending a final treaty of peace. These I have written out. As you will readily recognize, they are not to be trusted to careless hands. I have confidence in you, however, gentlemen, so I shall ask you to carry this paper to Marshal Foch."
"We shall be glad to do it, sir," said Chester.
"Very well. Then I intrust this paper to you, and I need not warn you to guard it carefully and keep the matter secret."
General Pershing extended a document to Hal. The lad took it and put it carefully in his inside coat pocket.
"It will be safe there, your excellency," he said quietly.
"Now," said the commander-in-chief, "it is my wish that that paper be placed in Marshal Foch's hands at the earliest possible moment. The car in which you drove General Rhodes is at your disposal."
"We shall make all possible haste, sir," said Chester.
Both lads saluted their commander and left the room.