Hal and Chester were both exponents of the manly art of self-defense, and more than once their skill in the fistic art had stood them to good advantage.  They were also proficient in the use of the revolver and sword.  They had returned from Russia with a dispatch for Sir John French from the Russian Grand Duke, a message so important that the Russian commander-in-chief would not flash it by wireless for fear that it might be intercepted by the Germans, and the code deciphered.

Hal and Chester went at once to the quarters assigned them, where they immediately threw themselves down to rest.  They were tired out, as the journey had occupied days, and they had scarcely closed their eyes during that time.  They had remained in England only long enough to have the body of Alexis buried with fitting honors, and had then set out for France immediately.

It was dark when the two lads were aroused by the sound of a bugle blowing the call to arms.  Both were quickly on their feet and dashed through the darkness to where they could make out the form of their commander, surrounded by other members of his staff.

“Something up!” cried Hal as they hurried forward.

“Probably a night attack,” said Chester.  “General French may be planning to carry some of the enemy’s trenches by assault.”

“Guess you are right,” replied Hal briefly.

They took their places among the others of the British leader’s staff and were received with nods of welcome and some expressions of astonishment.  They had friends among the British officers, many of whom, because of their long absence, had mourned them as dead.

The lads let their eyes roam about.  Troops, troops, troops!  Nothing but troops, as far as the eye could see.  Cavalry, artillery and infantry in solid masses on every side; officers darting hither and thither delivering sharp orders.  It was an impressive sight.

An officer on horseback dashed up to General French and the two held a short conversation.  As the rider turned and was about to make off again the lads recognized him.

“Major Derevaux!” shouted Hal, taking a step forward.

The officer wheeled in his saddle.  He recognized the two lads in an instant, and reined in.

“Hello, boys,” he called back.  “I heard you were dead.  Glad to see you again.”

Without further words, but with a wave of his hand, the French officer put spurs to his horse and dashed out of sight in the darkness.

“Wonder what he is doing here?” said Hal.  “He was attached to General Joffre’s staff when we left.  Remember?”

“Yes,” replied Chester.  “Must be some momentous move under way.”

Other officers now began to appear.  They dashed up to the British commander, made their reports and immediately dashed away again.

“Lieutenant Paine!  Lieutenant Crawford!”

It was General French summoning them and the boys approached and came to attention.  Because of past experience, both lads realized instantly that the General had some ticklish work cut out and that he had selected them to carry it through.