It was then Alan learned it had been reported that he was shot in Bruges as a spy. No doubt this report had been made in order to save the men responsible for his escape through the lines.
"Shot as a spy," thought Alan. "I wonder if it has been made public in
England. If so, what a terrible shock to Eve and all my friends."
He suppressed his feelings and gave an account of how he fulfilled his mission.
"You must see King Albert at once," said the chief. "It was a blow to him when he heard you were shot."
The news of Captain Chesney's return was soon noised abroad, and on all sides he was congratulated.
He hunted up Skane's letter and found the date of the Trent Park Grand Steeplechase would give him ample time to get home and ride Bandmaster over the course two or three times. He must see about his leave at once.
He supposed his safe arrival would be at once reported at home and that
Eve would see it and others.
There was a budget of letters for him some six weeks old. One of the last he opened came from his trainer. The date of the Steeplechase had been altered because the troops camped in the Park had left earlier than was expected.
Alan was uncertain about the date. He asked, and found he had just a couple of days to spare to get there in time.
Then came another thought which made him gasp. Had Bandmaster been struck out when he was reported shot?