"That would be rather irregular, unless the case were very urgent!"
"This case seems to me to be extremely urgent," persisted Jack.
"Perhaps you are right," thoughtfully acknowledged the other. "I shall assume responsibility and make the effort at any rate."
Accordingly, he asked for a number, and in a short time was conversing in French with someone who appeared to be his superior. He soon replaced the instrument and turned again to address the boys.
"An interview has been arranged for morning," he announced. "In the interim we will provide you the best accommodations at our command."
"Does that mean that we bunk in the cooler?" indignantly protested Jimmie, pushing forward. "I protest, your Honor! It isn't fair!"
"There is no other way!" declared the sergeant kindly.
"But let us go to a hotel!" argued Jimmie. "We can pay our way!"
Shaking his head, the sergeant gave directions for their disposal, and indicated that the interview was at an end by rising from his chair.