“What’s the meaning of this?” demanded the general.
“One of these men knocked me down, sir,” the German lieutenant replied, “and I was about to have him shot.”
“So,” said the general, “and why did he knock you down, if I may ask, lieutenant?”
The German stuttered and hung his head. It was Hal who replied.
“He struck me first, your excellency.”
“As I thought,” said the German general. “I’ve heard of your actions before, Lieutenant Leffler. Do not let me hear of your offending again.”
“But sir——” said the lieutenant.
“Enough!” was the general’s stern command. “See that your prisoners are made secure and then report immediately to me.”
The lieutenant saluted stiffly, but Chester noted an angry gleam in his eye.
“Humph!” said the lad. “He apparently has no love for his general. Looks like he would like to put a bullet through him.”