r were greatly impressed by the prompt action of the French
commander-in-chief.

"He allows no grass to grow under his feet," Hal whispered to Chester.

"I should say not," replied the latter.

General Joffre turned to Hal.

"It is your understanding, then," he said, "that the plot against the
President will not be tried until after the grand assault?"

"That is my understanding of the matter, sir," Hal replied.

"Good! In the meantime, then, we shall have time to take care of that."
He turned to another of his officers. "Colonel Devore," he said, "you
will see that these two lads are given suitable quarters."

The colonel saluted.

"I shall ask them to share mine, sir," he replied.

"_Bien_," returned General Joffre. "I shall probably have need of you
again, soon," he added, to Hal and Chester.

He sat down at his desk and turned to a mass of papers and maps, and the
lads realized that the interview was ended.

Colonel Devore motioned them to follow him, and, saluting the French
commander, the lads filed out of the tent.

Colonel Devore introduced them to his own quarters and, waving his hand
airily, exclaimed:

"You will make yourselves perfectly at home here as long as you
may stay."

"Thank you, Colonel," said Chester. "We appreciate your hospitality."

The colonel waved aside the thanks with a gesture and strode from the
tent.

The lads immediately composed themselves to rest, for it was a long time
since they had closed their eyes in slumber.

Greatly refreshed by a short sleep they arose two hours later and took
a walk about the camp. At a distant part of the trenches they saw a
large number of troops gathered about, and the sounds of laughter rose
on the air.

"Wonder what's up?" asked Hal.

"I don't know," replied Chester, "but we may as well have a look. Come
on."

He led the way and Hal followed him.

Coming closer the lads cried out in astonishment. Their eyes fell upon a
body of troops that they knew in an instant could have hailed but from
one part of the world. They were English--but a mere handful of them--not
more than a single squad.

"By Jove!" said Hal. "I didn't know there were any British troops in this
part of the field."

"Nor I," said Chester. "But what do you suppose all those fellows are
laughing at?"

They drew closer. Coming upon the circle of troops that surrounded a
single man, the lads stared in astonishment, and then they, too, broke
into a loud laugh.