The lads saluted and left the tent. Alexis joined them on the outside and the boys told him of the work ahead of them.
“But how about me?” Stephan demanded. “Am I not to go too?”
“No; I am sorry,” replied Hal. “The Grand Duke said nothing about you. Besides, three are better than four.”
Stephan was greatly disappointed, and showed it plainly. However, he was not a man to complain. He wished them good luck, shook hands all around and set off to rejoin his own regiment.
Suddenly Hal bethought himself of Marquis.
“We can’t take him,” he said. “He would be in the way. What shall we do with him?”
Alexis bethought himself of a friend in the city who, he was sure, would be glad to look out for the dog while they were away. Accordingly Marquis was taken to this home, where the woman of the house readily agreed to take care of him; but when they came to leave, Marquis wanted to go, too.
“No,” said Hal, and he talked to the dog quietly for several minutes, explaining to him the necessity of his remaining behind.
There could be no doubt that the dog understood, for a sorrowful look came over his face. His tail wagged in understanding of his orders, but there was a hurt look in his eyes. However, he did not protest, and when his three friends finally walked away, he stood looking after them regretfully, although making no attempt to follow.
“The first thing,” said Hal, “is to procure three good horses.”