A moment later Hal and Chester were in the presence of the generalissimo of all the allied forces. They saluted him respectfully.
"I may be mistaken," said Marshal Foch, eyeing them searchingly, "but I'll wager you are Majors Paine and Crawford. Am I right?"
"Yes, your excellency," said Hal. "We are honored that you remember us."
"I never forget a face," replied Marshal Foch; "and seldom a name. Then you bring me a communication from General Pershing?"
For answer Hal produced the document given him by the American commander-in-chief earlier in the day. He passed it to Marshal Foch without a word. The French commander took it and laid it carefully on his desk.
"That will be all for to-night, gentlemen," he said. "I shall be pleased if you will avail yourself of our hospitality. Colonel Murrat will find quarters for you. Will you report to me in the morning at 8 o'clock? I may have a reply for your commander-in-chief."
The lads saluted again and withdrew. Colonel Murrat showed them to excellent quarters in a house next to the one in which the French commander had his headquarters and left them.
"Well," said Chester, after he had gone, "looks like we are right in among things, doesn't it?"
"It certainly does," Hal agreed. "But say, I'm hungry. Let's step out and round up something to eat."
"Suits me," declared Chester, "I'm half starved myself."