"It may be hours before we can really put our plan into execution."
"Our plan?" repeated Dick. "What on earth did I have to do with making the plan? But, if you feel that we're not wasting time over a supper I'll admit that I am ready to eat."
So Reade summoned their host, as before.
"Is the night good and foggy?" Tom asked, when the aged peasant appeared.
"There is not a trace of fog, monsieur," was the reply. "Still, the sky is cloudy, and the night is dark."
"That's only second-best weather," grumbled Reade. "However, I'm impatient to have a try to-night. I think we will try for it. Can you help us?"
"Undoubtedly I can find out how clear the coast is," replied the old man. "I would be glad to do far more than that for you."
"If you can supply us with supper," Tom proposed, "and then find out the news, it will be a great service."
Later, while the chums ate, the old peasant went abroad. Tom and Dick were waiting impatiently until he returned.
"All is as well as it will be any night," the Frenchman reported, and added details.