He turned to the others of his staff, who had manifested some surprise at this command.  “I do this, gentlemen,” he explained, “that the Germans may be drawn into a trap of our own setting.  Not knowing that we have learned their plans, they will probably push the attack with vigor.  When we begin to give way they will be confident of the success of their plan.  In the meantime reenforcements shall be hurried forward, and, when the Germans have advanced to a point I shall select, we shall take the offensive with redoubled vigor.  The enemy, caught unprepared, will be crushed before they can be sufficiently reenforced.”

Exclamations of satisfaction escaped the group of staff officers, and Hal and Chester 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.