"I have not much doubt about it, colonel," Ralph said. "I seem to see my way quite clearly into Paris. Much more clearly, indeed, than I do to getting out again."
"Oh, it does not matter about getting out again, boys. You can stop quietly in there, until the end of the siege."
"That is just what we don't want to do," Percy said. "Would you kindly ask them to put into the dispatches a request that we may be sent out again, by the first balloon that comes? We have no fancy, either of us, for eating rats and cats; which I suppose is what it will come to, before it is over."
"I will see to it, boys," the colonel said, smiling; "but really, I should advise your staying there. You have done all--and more than--your share of work."
The boys shook their heads; and it was arranged that, if they got in, they should come out again in a balloon.
The next morning, the boys were up at half-past four and, at half-past five, were at the Prefecture. Colonel Tempe sent in his name to the minister, and they were at once admitted. Gambetta was at his writing table.
"Good morning, Colonel Tempe," he said, cordially; and then added, in some surprise, "who are these men you have with you, and where are your young Englishmen? I hope they will not be late."
"These are they," the colonel said, smiling.
"They are who?" Gambetta said, puzzled. "I do not understand you, colonel."
"These are the Lieutenants Barclay," Colonel Tempe said.