The boys thanked him and started to leave, when the telephone in the general's quarters rang. He looked for some one to answer, but no one being at hand, he picked up the 'phone himself.
"What's that?" he asked after a brief moment. "The water works. You think they are attempting to cut you off. All right, I'll rush help."
He set down the 'phone and turned to Lieutenant Grant.
"The enemy has gathered in force about the water works," he said sharply. "They evidently intend cutting off the water supply. Tell Colonel Bright to send them reinforcements at once. Do you boys know the way there?"
"Yes, sir," from all three.
"Then show the men the nearest way! Now go! The safety of the city may depend upon you!"