"But," protested the general, "why was it necessary for you to pick me for your tool?"
"We wouldn't have done that, General," said Hal, "had you not been so insistent upon our having breakfast with you."
"Well," said General Knoff, "it would appear that the fates are just, after all. I have no doubt that it was information you gained from me that spoiled our plans."
"I have no doubt of it either, sir," Hal smiled.
"And such being the case," the general continued, "I shall see to it that you are tried as spies."
"But we are in American uniform now, sir," said Hal.
"You weren't then," was the reply, "as I stand willing to prove. No; I shall have you shot. No man can make a fool of me and live."
"You can't do that, sir," said Hal, quietly.
"I can't, eh?" exclaimed the general. "I would like to know what is to prevent me?"
Hal's smile seemed to infuriate the general.