This information galvanized the officers into action and orders to clear the way went forward at once. Alfred turned his machine to follow, but after going a few hundred feet the power ceased, and in spite of all he could do the machine refused to move.
Several men kindly came to his assistance, and the trouble was soon apparent. "You have no petrol," said one of them.
"That is strange. I was told there was enough for a whole day's run, and I have not——"
"Ah! but there is a hole in the tank. Yes, two of them. See!"
"They were made by German bullets," said another.
"Look at the seat," said the first speaker. "You had a close call, my boy."
Alfred looked at the damage ruefully. "What shall I do?" he asked.
"We'll fix that up in short order," replied the man who made the examination and discovered the trouble. He was an expert motorcycle man, and this was an opportunity for him to be of service. He approached the commanding officer of his company and explained the situation, and was detailed to effect the repairs at once.
The tool box of the machine was opened, and the rolls of tape taken out.
"Now watch me, my boy. Let me show you how to make a temporary repair, in cases of this kind."