"The general left orders that he was not to be disturbed unless upon a very important matter," he replied. "But this is urgent," said Chester. "We are instructed by General Rhodes to deliver the message at once." "But how am I to know the matter is so urgent?" asked the colonel. "Because I say so, sir," said Hal quietly. "I am not in the habit of lying, nor of having my word doubted." "Oh, is that so," said the colonel, though somewhat taken aback. "Well, I’m not sure the general will care to be disturbed. You may deliver your message, and then I shall consider whether your business is of such importance as to justify waking the general." "We were not instructed to deliver our message to you, sir," said Hal simply. "I have to request again that we be given immediate audience of General Lejeune." The colonel hesitated. Apparently he was on the point of refusing to arouse the general, but he thought better of it, shrugged his shoulders and turned away. "One moment," he said brusquely. He returned a moment later, however, followed by a second figure, attired in a suit of pajamas and rubbing sleepy eyes. "General Lejeune?" asked Hal. "Yes," was the sharp reply. "What is it?" "We bear a message from General Rhodes, sir," said Hal. "Well, let’s have it, let’s have it," exclaimed the general. "I’ve got to get back to bed and get some sleep." "First, sir," said Hal, "I must explain that we came through the German lines where two or three other couriers lost their lives. General Rhodes wishes you to understand, sir, that the success of the campaign depends upon your acting in accordance with his message." "I have no doubt of it," said General Lejeune. "I have been unable, since the German wedge was driven between our forces, to get into communication with General Rhodes or other divisional commanders. I am isolated here, but at the same time I consider my position impregnable, so I am standing pat." Hal and Chester bowed in understanding of the general’s explanation, and the commander of the Second division added: "Come, sirs, what is the message you bring?" "General Rhodes’ message, sir," said Hal, "is that he requests you to attack the enemy before Sedan in full force on the evening of November 6, the attack to begin precisely at 6 o’clock." "Very well," said General Lejeune, "and just what is at the bottom of this plan—what is to be gained by it?" "That I do not know, sir," said Hal. "General Rhodes simply asked us to carry that message. He said that the success of the campaign against Sedan depended upon you doing your part." "Well, I’ll do it, never fear," said General Lejeune. "I’ve got one of the best fighting units in France, and there’s not a man in it who’s not dead anxious to get another chance at the Huns. You may take back word to General Rhodes for me, that I shall act in accordance with his wishes."