He turned to his desk, littered with maps and papers, signifying that the
interview was ended. The three officers drew themselves up to attention,
saluted, and left the tent.

Outside they were joined by Anthony Stubbs, who poured into their ears
his tale of woe at being refused admission to the general's quarters.

"And where am I to go, now?" he asked.

"Where do you want to go?" asked Hal.

"Why," was the reply, "I want to go where I can get some news for my
paper. I want big news--something that the other papers will not get."

"But," said Hal, "you know that, even if you got it, you could not send
it to your paper. The censor would see to that."

"Oh, I know that," replied Stubbs, "but if I can get it I'll get it out.
You leave that to me."

"Well, Mr. Stubbs," said Hal, "I don't know where you can get it right
now, but for to-night I ask you to share our tent. You may fare forth on
your quest in the morning."

Mr. Stubbs made a profound bow.

"I thank you," he replied, "and I shall do myself that honor."

Hal turned to Captain Anderson.