"Nothing to it, in my opinion," he said. "It is true that conditions in Germany are fast approaching a crisis, but I believe this report is premature. However, I have no doubt that something like that will happen within the next thirty days. But what are you doing in our lines, man?" This last to the German soldier. "Well, I’m tired of fighting," was the soldier’s reply. "I want to live to go home again some day. I’ve a family in Hamburg that will need me. I am content to remain a prisoner until the war is over." "And so you shall," said General Lejeune. "Whether your report is true or not, it has given me an interesting moment. Colonel O’Shea, will you turn this man over to the corporal of the guard?" The prisoner was led away. General Lejeune turned to Hal and Chester. "I am sorry to lose your services, gentlemen," he said, "but I have just been in communication with General Rhodes, and he wishes you to report to him at once." The lads saluted the commander of the Second division and left his quarters. Half an hour later they reported to General Rhodes as he rode into Sedan to establish his own quarters, as the Second division was soon to advance again. General Rhodes greeted the lads warmly. "I am certainly glad that you both came through safely," he said, after returning their salutes, "and I must say that I didn’t expect it. You have been in luck. Now I have another important matter in hand." "We shall be glad to offer our services, sir," said Hal. General Rhodes smiled. "I’ve no doubt of it," he replied. "However, this mission is not likely to be so dangerous. Don’t worry, though," he added, as the faces of the lads fell, "I believe I may safely promise you some interesting moments." "We’re glad of that, sir," declared Chester. "I wonder," said General Rhodes, "whether you have heard of the reported upheaval in Germany?" "Yes, sir," said Hal. "Only a few moments ago we captured a man who declared the kaiser had abdicated." "That," said General Rhodes, "is probably untrue; however, I know that the kaiser has considered abdicating. In fact, his abdication is being urged by his military leaders—his erstwhile friends, Hindenburg and Ludendorff." "Can that be possible, sir?" asked Hal. "Yes, we have authentic information to that effect. I understand, too, Germany is preparing to ask Marshal Foch for an armistice preliminary to signing a declaration of peace." "By Jove, sir!" exclaimed Chester, carried away in spite of himself. General Rhodes smiled again. "It is good news," he said quietly. "Of course, I am not absolutely positive of that, but in view of recent German reverses I do not see how the enemy can do aught else." "Well, sir," said Chester, "we’ll impose terms on them that will make their hair curl." For a third time General Rhodes smiled. "We won’t be too severe," he said. "Remember, we are not German."