"I must telephone for instructions," Cartier continued. "It may require a long wait. Gentlemen, you will find seats."
First Cartier called up his regimental commander and reported the matter.
"It will be passed on to division headquarters," reported Captain
Cartier, turning from the telephone instrument.
By and by the telephone bell tinkled softly. Orders came over the wire that the arresting party should take the prisoners to division headquarters.
"These are your instructions, then, Lieutenant De Verne. Of course it is expected that Captain Prescott will accompany you as complaining witness."
In the darkness of the night it was a toilsome march back through the communication trenches. This time, when they were left behind, there was no limousine to pick up the members of the party.
"It is a relief to be at last where we can talk," said De Verne, in English.
"You may speak for yourself," retorted the German colonel gruffly, betraying the fact that he understood the language.
Halted four times by sentries, the party at last reached division headquarters. Outside a young staff officer awaited them.
"General Bazain has risen and dressed," stated the staff officer. "He had undertaken to snatch two hours' sleep, but this cannot be his night to sleep. The general awaits you, and you are to enter. Through to his office."