continued to fall among the English troops, and here and there men fell
to the ground.

"They arrived just in time, didn't they, Hal?" said Chester.

"You bet they did," was the reply. "But come, we will try to make our way
back to our station."

With Chester still leaning on his shoulder, Hal led the way, going very
slowly because of his burden. Making his friend comfortable under an army
wagon, Hal went at once to Gen. French to make his report.

"You have done well," was the general's only comment when Hal had
concluded his recital.

Hal saluted and left.

"Guess I'll go back and keep Chester company," he said to himself.

He was walking slowly along with bowed head, musing, when he came
suddenly into contact with another figure. The man with whom he had
collided mumbled an imprecation and violently pushed the lad away, at the
same time exclaiming:

"What do you mean by bumping into me like that? Can't you see where you
are going? I have a notion to teach you better manners."

Hal's face flushed, and he turned a steady gaze on the other, who proved
to be a French lieutenant.