Hal felt of his revolver, for he smelled trouble. But he need not have worried—then.
“Where are you men going?” asked the colonel gruffly.
“To General von Mackensen, at the front, with dispatches,” said Hal, mentioning the name of the first German general he thought of.
“So?” exclaimed the colonel. “I am going that way myself, also with dispatches. I find, however, that I shall have to remain here until morning unless I can commandeer a passing automobile.”
Hal thought rapidly.
“I’ll tell you, sir,” he said at length, “we are going on to-night, and we shall be glad to have you accompany us, if you wish.”
“I shall be glad,” said the colonel. “When shall you start?”
“Immediately, sir.”
“Good! I am ready.”
Hal now introduced himself by a fictitious name; also his companions. The colonel owned up to the name of Reissler. Together the four left the hotel and returned to the automobile.