he one in which the little party of
British had started on their mission. It was not long, therefore,
before the lad found himself descending from the car. Another moment
and he once more stood before his commander.

"So, you got back safely, eh," exclaimed General French. "Young
Crawford gave me your report, and I was afraid that you would be
captured. Did you learn anything further?"

"Yes, sir," Hal made reply. "I have learned the number of men in each
command, their positions and all details."

"What!" exclaimed General French in great surprise.

"Yes, sir," continued Hal, and reaching in his pocket he drew out the
documents given him by the German officer. "Here they are, sir."

General French took the papers from the lad's hand, and glanced at
them quickly. After a brief perusal, he laid his hand on Hal's
shoulder.

"You have done well," he said quietly. "I shall not forget it. You
may go now, for I doubt not that your friend is greatly worried over
you. I will say this: You have rendered an invaluable service to
England--one that the King shall hear of. I have already taken steps
to thwart this German coup, and if we are successful the credit will
be mainly due you."

Hal saluted and with glowing heart left the general's tent.

"Now to find Chester," he said.

He had little difficulty in doing this, for Chester was still making
his quarters with Lieutenant Anderson. Approaching the lieutenant's
tent, Hal walked up cautiously.

"I want to surprise them," he told himself.

Inside he heard the sound of voices, and he paused to listen.

"I'm afraid he won't ever get back," came Chester's voice. "I should
have insisted on accompanying him. I shouldn't have let him go alone."

"Still," said Lieutenant Anderson, "he was in command. We had to obey
him."

"That is true," replied Chester, "but just the same if ill befalls
him I shall feel that I am partly to blame. Besides, we had the
information we went after. What had he to gain by staying and putting
himself in the enemy's power?"

Stepping quietly into the tent, Hal advanced to the center before he
was observed.

"A whole lot, Chester," he said quietly.

Chester and Lieutenant Anderson were upon their feet in an instant,
and one had him by either hand, wringing it enthusiastically.

"Stop it, stop it," laughed Hal. "You'll wring my arms off."

"And so you are back safely," said Chester, looking long at his
friend.

"Yes, I'm back," said Hal.