“Well, what of it?” demanded the colonel.

“Well, I don’t know,” said Chester slowly.

“I’ll speak to the general,” said Colonel Anderson.  “Perhaps he will see his way clear to making representations for his release.”

“Do you think he will?” asked Hal eagerly.

“To tell you the truth, I don’t, but I’ll speak to him, anyhow.”

With this the lads were forced to be content, for they realized that Colonel Anderson would not permit them to go forward by themselves; besides, they recognized the folly of such an act.

The battle was over for the moment.  The Italian left wing retained the ground won despite several counter assaults and the right wing had also been pushed forward after vigorous fighting.  The Italians held their dearly gained victory in the center.

“Come with me,” said Colonel Anderson to Hal and Chester.  “We’ll have a talk with the general.”

The two lads followed him.

CHAPTER XXII.

Off on A mission.

“I regret to say that what you ask is impossible.”

The speaker was General Ferrari, commander of the Italian army of the North—­the army that later was to attempt an invasion of Austrian territory by way of the Alps.

Colonel Anderson had just put before the general the question of trying to gain the freedom of Uncle John.  The general turned to Hal and Chester.

“I am not unmindful of the great help you rendered Italy in Rome,” he said; “but, at the same time, I cannot grant your present request.  I am sorry.”

“Why, that’s all right, sir,” said Chester quietly.  “The idea was Colonel Anderson’s, and if it cannot be done, that settles it, of course.  Uncle John will have to take his chances, the same as the rest of us.”

“I am glad you are so sensible about it,” replied the general.  “Now,” turning to Colonel Anderson, “I have a matter to discuss with you.”

Hal and Chester took their departure, telling Colonel Anderson they would await him without.  Half an hour later the colonel joined them.

“It’s too bad you fellows are not in the fighting business any more,” he said.

“Why?” demanded both lads in one voice.

“Because I am now confronted with a piece of work in which I should be glad to have your aid.”

“What kind of work?” asked Chester.

“Oh, just a little mission that would take us into the Austrian lines.  General Ferrari wants a little information, and he has selected me to go after it.  I’ve got to have a couple of companions.”

“By Jove, Chester!  Here’s a chance for us,” declared Hal.  “We’ll go along, and who knows, perhaps we may have a chance to help Uncle John, too.”

“Good!” agreed Chester.  “What do you say, colonel?”

“I am afraid the general would not hear of it,” replied the colonel, with a slight smile.  “For my part, if you are willing I should be glad to have you with me.  I know you are to be depended upon and I have great confidence in your resourcefulness.”