“True,” said the doctor, “but the roads are excellent.”

“Remember those swinging cots,” said Ajo.

“We might try it,” said Patsy, anxious to be doing something.  “Couldn’t we start to-morrow for Arras, Uncle?”

“It occurs to me that we must first find a chauffeur,” answered Mr. Merrick, “and from my impressions of the inhabitants of Calais, that will prove a difficult task.”

“Why?”

“Every man jack of ’em is scared stiff,” said Ajo, with a laugh.  “But we might ask the commandant to recommend someone.  The old boy seems friendly enough.”

The next day, however, brought important news from Antwerp.  The city had surrendered, the Belgian army had made good its escape and was now retreating toward Ostend, closely followed by the enemy.

This news was related by a young orderly who met them as they entered the Hotel de Ville.  They were also told that the commandant was very busy but would try to see them presently.  This young Frenchman spoke English perfectly and was much excited by the morning’s dispatches.

“This means that the war is headed our way at last!” he cried enthusiastically.  “The Germans will make a dash to capture both Dunkirk and Calais, and already large bodies of reinforcements are on the way to defend these cities.”

“English, or French?” asked Uncle John.

“This is French territory,” was the embarrassed reply, “but we are glad to have our allies, the English, to support us.  Their General French is now at Dunkirk, and it is probable the English will join the French and Belgians at that point.”

“They didn’t do much good at Antwerp, it seems,” remarked Ajo.

“Ah, they were naval reserves, monsieur, and not much could be expected of them.  But do not misunderstand me; I admire the English private—­the fighting man—­exceedingly.  Were the officers as clever as their soldiers are brave, the English would be irresistible.”

As this seemed a difficult subject to discuss, Uncle John asked the orderly if he knew of a good chauffeur to drive their ambulance—­an able, careful man who might be depended upon in emergencies.

The orderly reflected.

“We have already impressed the best drivers,” he said, “but it may be the general will consent to spare you one of them.  Your work is so important that we must take good care of you.”

But when they were admitted to the general they found him in a more impatient mood than before.  He really could not undertake to direct Red Cross workers or advise them.  They were needed everywhere; everywhere they would be welcome.  And now, he regretted to state that he was very busy; if they had other business with the department, Captain Meroux would act as its representative.

Before accepting this dismissal Uncle John ventured to ask about a chauffeur.  Rather brusquely the general stated that they could ill afford to spare one from the service.  A desperate situation now faced the Allies in Flanders.  Captain Meroux must take care of the Americans; doubtless he could find a driver for their ambulance—­perhaps a Belgian.