"Of course, your excellency," said Chester breathlessly.
"Of course, sir," declared Hal.
"Then go you shall," said Marshal Foch. "Report to me here to-morrow morning at 6 o'clock."
Hal and Chester saluted and took their departure, their spirits high.
CHAPTER XIX
HIRSON
Almost due west of Rheims approximately 150 miles as the crow flies, less than two hundred miles northeast of Soissons, is the village of Hirson. Through all the war, this little village, on the edge of the Franco-Belgian border, had retained its quiet seclusion. It had been the scene of much severe fighting during the four years of the war, but otherwise laid no claim to prominence.
But now Hirson was to become historic. In it was to be written one of the most important chapters in the history of all nations.
Into Hirson on the morning of November 9, steamed a special train. The Tricolor streamed from the engine pilot, from the rear car, and fluttered from each and every window as the train drew into the little station.
At the depot awaiting the arrival of the train stood a group of men. Included in this group was the burgess, the mayor of the city, and other officials of the city government.