Accordingly, the three friends seated themselves at the table with the others. Coffee was soon before them, and Chester presently found himself in animated conversation with the general’s daughter, Kathryn. Stubbs conversed mostly to Frau Knoff, while the general kept Hal engaged. For some time they talked on general topics, touching only briefly on the war. But as always with soldiers, the conversation at last turned into that channel. Suddenly Hal’s heart gave a quick thump. Here, the lad told himself, was an opportunity that was not to be overlooked. Undoubtedly, if he would, General Knoff could verify or set at naught the rumor that Austria had, or was about to, sue for peace. Hal drew a long breath, then said: "I understand, your excellency, that our enemies are regaling themselves with a report that Austria is about to desert the emperor and sue for peace." General Knoff set his cup down abruptly, and gazed closely at Hal. "And do you believe that?" he asked at last. Hal shook his head and smiled slightly. "Why should Austria desert?" he asked. "We have the advantage at this moment, in spite of the fact that we have suffered some reverses lately. No; if the war were to end now, Germany is victorious." "Good!" said General Knoff. "I like that talk, for it is becoming rare these days. These light reverses you speak of seem to have affected others more strongly—to have shaken their confidence. However, it is well that our foes think the slight difference of opinion between his majesty and the emperor of Austria may result in a complete breach; yes, it is well." "You mean, your excellency," said Hal, taking another long chance, "that such rumors have been circulated intentionally—that the enemy may be taken off their guard?" General Knoff glanced around cautiously. He waited a moment, then said: "You will understand, of course, that it is impossible for me to answer yes to your question; at the same time, I cannot deny it." "I understand, your excellency," replied Hal, "and you may be sure that I shall say nothing of what I know." "You know nothing!" said the general sharply. "Very well, your excellency," said Hal quietly. "I know nothing." General Knoff turned the conversation into other channels. Directly he asked the name and position of Hal’s and Chester’s regiments. Fortunately, both lads had posted themselves in advance and their answers did not rouse the general’s suspicions. At last breakfast came to an end. The three friends made their adieus to their new friends, and retired at once to Stubbs’ room. "Well," said that worthy, when they were settled comfortably and secure against intrusion, "we’ve learned something, Hal. But I’ll tell you, you took my breath away when you began to pump the general." "And mine, agreed Chester. "Well, it looked like the best way to me," declared Hal. "I figured it wasn’t wise to pass up an opportunity like that."