A guard blocked the way, and a corporal approached. "Your business," he said.
"We are from the 14th French Artillery; just came out of the hospital a few weeks ago," said Ralph.
"Have you authority to pass the lines?" asked the corporal.
"No; we just came over from the field base today; didn't think it was necessary," said Alfred.
"I will report," said the orderly, as he turned on his heels and marched alongside the hill to one of the dug-outs.
An officer approached; the boys saluted.
"From the 14th, I understand," he said. "Any credentials?" he quickly remarked.
The boys looked at each other, for they were now conscious of the fact that they did not have the first evidence to sustain the contention that they were members of the 14th.
Ralph shook his head. Alfred reached into his pocket and drew out the certificate of the physician, which detailed the wounding, the detention at the hospital, and the discharge.
The officer examined the paper with some interest.