"But—" began Hal.
"I said I'm busy," declared Stubbs. "Can't you see I'm in a hurry?"
"Well, all right, if that's the way you feel about it," said Chester.
Stubbs seemed as if about to pass on, then hesitated.
"I'll tell you," he said. "I am in an awful hurry, but I've time to tell you the news if you promise to keep it to yourself."
"I promise," said Chester. "Let's have it, Mr. Stubbs."
"Austria has sued for peace," said Stubbs briefly.
"What!" said Hal. "Again?"
Stubbs glared at the lad.
"I tell you Austria has sued for peace," he said, emphasizing each word. "This time there is no doubt about it. I have it straight."