"Which one of you is Private Dineau?" he inquired.
"I am," announced Jacques stepping forward.
"Good," exclaimed the major. "Here are dispatches which you are to deliver to Colonel Erhard. He is in command at the village of Flambeau in the Vosges Mountains. The dispatches are important and should reach him at the earliest possible moment." As he spoke he handed a small packet to Jacques.
"Your aeroplane is waiting for you," he continued. "It will contain everything you will have need of and I wish you a good trip and a safe return, I would suggest that your two aides who look so very much alike go and see that everything is in readiness. Meanwhile I will point out Flambeau to you on the map and the best route for you to follow."
The major smiled at the two brothers who immediately departed, and guided by a soldier hastened across the aviation field to the spot where a big armored monoplane was just being trundled out of its hangar. A machine-gun was mounted on board and several bombs were also to be carried.
"Here are coats for you," said one of the men as the two brothers approached the machine. "You will find it cold up among the clouds today."
"How about food?" inquired Earl. He was always particular about that.
"Two days' rations for three men," said the soldier. "That is more than you'll need if all goes well but it's a good plan to be prepared."
"I think so too," agreed Earl. "What horsepower is this machine?"
"One hundred."