"Probably a night attack," said Chester. "General French may be planning
to carry some of the enemy's trenches by assault."

"Guess you are right," replied Hal briefly.

They took their places among the others of the British leader's staff and
were received with nods of welcome and some expressions of astonishment.
They had friends among the British officers, many of whom, because of
their long absence, had mourned them as dead.

The lads let their eyes roam about. Troops, troops, troops! Nothing but
troops, as far as the eye could see. Cavalry, artillery and infantry in
solid masses on every side; officers darting hither and thither
delivering sharp orders. It was an impressive sight.

An officer on horseback dashed up to General French and the two held a
short conversation. As the rider turned and was about to make off again
the lads recognized him.

"Major Derevaux!" shouted Hal, taking a step forward.

The officer wheeled in his saddle. He recognized the two lads in an
instant, and reined in.

"Hello, boys," he called back. "I heard you were dead. Glad to see
you again."

Without further words, but with a wave of his hand, the French officer
put spurs to his horse and dashed out of sight in the darkness.