“I’m very sorry, sir,” said Hal.
“It can’t be helped now,” said General Pershing, “and it is good fortune that brings you here now. My own car has run out of ‘gas,’ due to the carelessness of my driver. I have sent him for another car, but now that you are here I shall change. Come, Colonel Gibson.”
The American general and his companion alighted and took seats in Hal’s car. General Pershing motioned Hal to the wheel and Chester was also waved into a front seat.
“You will drive me to General Lawrence’s quarters,” said General Pershing, “and this will give you an opportunity to do all the speeding you care to. I must see General Lawrence and be back at my own headquarters by noon.”
“Very well, sir,” said Hal.
He turned the car quickly and soon was speeding in the direction from which he had come.
Neither Hal nor Chester said a word as the car sped on. The trip to General Lawrence’s quarters was made in record time, and Hal and Chester remained in the car while the two generals talked alone.
Half an hour later General Pershing, still accompanied by Colonel Gibson, re-entered the automobile.
“You know where my temporary quarters are in the city of Soissons?” he asked.
“Yes, sir,” replied Hal.