General Knoff glanced around cautiously. He waited a moment, then said:
"You will understand, of course, that it is impossible for me to answer yes to your question; at the same time, I cannot deny it."
"I understand, your excellency," replied Hal, "and you may be sure that I shall say nothing of what I know."
"You know nothing!" said the general sharply.
"Very well, your excellency," said Hal quietly. "I know nothing."
General Knoff turned the conversation into other channels. Directly he asked the name and position of Hal's and Chester's regiments. Fortunately, both lads had posted themselves in advance and their answers did not rouse the general's suspicions.
At last breakfast came to an end. The three friends made their adieus to their new friends, and retired at once to Stubbs' room.
"Well," said that worthy, when they were settled comfortably and secure against intrusion, "we've learned something, Hal. But I'll tell you, you took my breath away when you began to pump the general."
"And mine, agreed Chester.
"Well, it looked like the best way to me," declared Hal. "I figured it wasn't wise to pass up an opportunity like that."