d, Jules pulled up before a tent somewhat larger than the rest.

"General Pombrey's quarters," he said, "and for that reason
comparatively safe."

"You mean that the general is one of us?" demanded Hal in no
little surprise.

"Yes," said Jules, briefly.

Chester gave a low whistle. Evidently this conspiracy, whatever it might
be, was more widespread than he had imagined.

Jules entered the tent and the two lads followed him.

Inside a large number of men already had assembled. Apparently, their
anticipation had been so great that they had been unable to control their
impatience until nearer the appointed hour. The lads were impressed with
one peculiar feature. Unlike most plotters--and Hal and Chester already
had come into contact with many--these men wore no masks. Apparently,
they were not afraid of their identities being known by their fellow
conspirators.

There were no remarks when Jules and Hal and Chester entered the tent.
The former led the way to the far side and there stood quietly in the
half light. Hal and Chester took their places beside him.

As time passed other men appeared in the tent and Hal and Chester were
surprised to see that some were officers of high rank; but neither lad
said anything aloud.

Came the voice of a sentry without:

"One o'clock and all's well!"

A moment later the apathy that had gripped the interior of the tent where
the conspirators were assembled disappeared. General Pombrey addressed
the others.

"I am glad to see so many of you here to-night," he said earnestly. "I
note several new faces amongst us and I am pleased to know that others
are joining this great movement every day. It shows that even in the
midst of this warlike camp the spirit of peace has not died."

His words were greeted with a murmur of approval, though no man spoke.

The general continued:

"Now, I have to inform you that the crisis is near. I have had word from
the enemy's lines that the spirit of peace there has grown. It would
appear that we are on the eve of success. Another battle or two--a few
thousand more lives lost--and this great war may end. When the spirit of
peace has overcome the spirit of war in the ranks, then will the war end.
I have called you together to-night to instruct you to sound even deeper
than you have done the sentiment of the men who stand by your side. The
time to stop this war is almost at hand."

Again there was a murmur of approval as the general became sil