CHAPTER XL.
OLD GLORY AGAIN.
Before the fall of Louvain, Jack and his friends were across the border in France. Ultimately they were lucky enough to rejoin the St. Mark—sent for the accommodation of refugees—at Marseilles.
A cable was despatched to America, telling of Tom Juke’s safety.
Pottle, the young photographer, cabled his paper, asking for permission to remain in the battle zone. This was granted.
So the trio—Jack, Bill and Tom—said farewell to Pottle.
“When I get back—possible—the paper will make—hurrah!—look me up—eh?”
“We sure will, old top,” promised Tom.
The voyage across was without incident, save that, as was expected, they were stopped by British warships.
So, one fine morning, unannounced, Jack called upon Uncle Toby Ready. The old tar gave vent to a great cry of joy. Though Jack had often been away for long periods, Uncle Toby never fully knew the thrilling adventure Jack had participated in. Now there was no hiding of the truth. The war was at hand. The Germans were sweeping everything before them. How had it fared with Jack? This uncertainty had worried Uncle Toby. He felt that he would never be able to forgive himself, had anything happened to Jack.