adequate.
As far as it goes, it is the peer of any secret service. Of course
help is needed, but I very much fear it is not the sort of assistance
that the Camp Brady boys are prepared to give.

"You see, Henry, there are two possibilities. Either there is a leak
in the navy department itself, as your story says, or else the sailing
of the troops was observed at the port of embarkation and their
destination guessed at. There is nothing you could do in the way of
apprehending a spy in Washington, and I doubt if you could be of much
assistance in detecting German agents in our ports. Of course I know
how skilful the boys are with their wireless, especially you and Willie
Brown, and I know what close observers Roy Mercer and Lew Heinsling
are. And I realize, too, that in running down the dynamiters at the
Elk City reservoir after both the Pennsylvania troops and the state
police had failed, you proved that the wireless patrol was a mighty
efficient organization. But that campaign was accomplished in the
mountains and forests where your training in scouting and woodcraft has
made you at home. Conditions in a great seaport would be so strange
and confusing to all of you that I fear you would be more of a
hindrance than a help.

"I am sorry about it, for I know how keenly you feel and how eager you
are to help your country. The best way you can do that is to continue
in school, learning all you can and making yourselves more and more
efficient as wireless operators. In a very short time, I suspect,
Uncle Sam will be in pressing need of good radio men. Then, although
you are still young, your chance will come; for your ability is already
known to the Chief of the Radio Service through your capture of the
dynamiters last summer.

"As you know, our camp is just outside of Washington. I happen to be
going into the city to-morrow. Of course, I shall take occasion to lay
your suggestion before the Chief. But do not build any hopes on that
statement. I have no idea anything will come of it. But it may help
the Chief to bear you in mind later on. I am sorry to dash your hopes,
but I cannot do otherwise than to tell you the truth. Of course if
anything should come of it, I will let you know promptly. Remember me
to all the other boys.

"Sincerely yours,

"JAMES HARDY."

Henry's face became longer and longer as he read. When he had finished
the letter there was more than a suspicion of moisture in his eye