e the truth not through any suspicion
they may have but by actual, obvious, undeniable evidence. If we can
furnish such proof the Government at Washington will find good reason
for watching these German-Americans.
"It is for us to get the proof. Once we get that we will not have to
worry as to trouble from the other side of the border.
"I suppose," the captain concluded as they entered the building and
made their way to the room in which Major Church was waiting, "you
know who some of the men at this conference are. Besides Mr. Dean and
myself, Major Smith, our chief, is an ex-army officer. Colonel Graham
is Syd Graham's father. Mr. Smythe comes from Toronto; he is in the
employ of the Government. Well, here we are."
They entered a small room. Major Church put aside some papers on
which he had been engaged.
Captain Wilson introduced Ted.
"I have heard of you, young man," was the major's greeting. "You are a
credit to the school, I find. And we have called you before us because
of qualities we find you possess.
"I don't know how much you do know, lad, but war with Germany is near.
Germans masquerading as German-Americans are planning an attempt
against Canada and they intend to carry out that attempt just before
the immediate declaration of war. We believe that the meetings of the
prime movers are held in Milwaukee, possibly in Chicago. It is
important for us to know their plans."
"We perhaps could decide on anyone of several men but it occurred to
us that to send one so young as you are would in itself lull any
suspicions they may have. They will not connect you with our work,
which is in itself half the battle. But, of course, it would not do to
send any one who, though young, is not also endowed with a fair amount
of good common sense and discretion."
Ted listened. Nothing that the Major said escaped him. He realized
the weight of the speaker's words.
"I understand that you have lived in Chicago. That is correct, is it
not?"
"Yes sir," Ted replied.
"Well, it will help in case the point to cover is Chicago. With your
knowledge of Chicago very little time would be lost."
"In the main," the Major continued, "it is mostly a question of being
alert--eyes, ears and mind."
"Captain Wilson," the Major turned. "Is Mr. Smythe obtaining the
necessary information, do you know?"
"Yes, we will soon know," was the reply, "who is the operative in that
district and whether Chicago or Milwaukee is the p
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