Marshal Foch glanced at his watch.
"And it is not quite noon yet," he said. "Well, we have plenty of time ahead of us."
Directly the burgess returned to report that luncheon was served in the depot, and to this Marshal Foch and members of his staff repaired at once.
The meal disposed of, it was after 12 o'clock. The next hour the French commander-in-chief spent in animated discussion with members of his staff.
Now Hal and Chester, in response to the commands of Marshal Foch, had reported to him at the hour appointed and thus found themselves members of the group that proceeded to Hirson. The heart of each lad beat high, for both were smart enough to know that they were on the eve of historic events.
"I'm willing to bet, though," said Hal, "that the Germans will go back on their promises."
"I don't think so," declared Chester. "They are aiming to get the easiest terms possible, and they must be smart enough to realize that the longer they postpone their cry for peace, the harder will be the terms imposed by the allies."
"Maybe so," Hal admitted; "but after four years' experience with the Germans, I believe nothing until I see it."
"You talk like Stubbs," said Chester.
"Perhaps; and yet I'm telling you just how I feel."