The German captain staggered back, but said nothing.
"You may go now," said the general. "You will hear more from me later."
The young officers left the room hurriedly.
General Knoff, for as such the general now introduced himself to Hal, Chester and Stubbs, addressed Chester quietly.
"You have befriended my wife and my daughter," he said. "I thank you, sir."
Chester saluted again, but made no reply.
"It is my wish that you all join us at breakfast," continued the general.
"We should be pleased, your excellency," said Chester politely, "save for the fact that we have just breakfasted."
"Then you shall at least have another cup of coffee with us," said General Knoff.
Chester bowed his assent, for he realized there was nothing else to do. A mere German captain did not refuse an invitation from a general—not under the iron discipline that still ruled in the armies of the kaiser.