The tank had been perforated by two shots, which went entirely through, thus causing four perforations. As the machine had the type of tank which rested vertically between the fork, it was obvious that, since the lowest perforation was not at the bottom, there was still enough petrol left to enable Pierre to reach the command before the remaining portion was used up.
"First, take these patches, and put cement around the edges, and apply them over the holes. Then wind the tape around the tank and over the patches, just as I am doing, and be sure to stretch the tape well. There; now we must get some strong cord, or twine, and wind that over the tape. You will find that absolutely tight, and will hold the petrol for a time."
"Well, will it leak at all if it is put on right?", asked Alfred.
"In time the petrol will eat up, or dissolve the rubber, so that proper repairs should be made as soon as possible," he was informed.
"Now that it is fixed where can I get some petrol? I forgot all about that," said Alfred.
"Well, I didn't," said the workman.
Alfred stared at him. "Do you know where to get some?"
"Certainly; they have plenty in the kitchen wagon."
Alfred might have thought of that, but he couldn't think of everything. Where was the kitchen wagon?
It was coming up, and Alfred applied to the officer in charge of the commissary department for a supply, and after some questioning the permission was granted. In a few minutes more the boy was supplied and was under way.