Dick nodded, a disappointed look on his face.

"Very well, sir," he said, and turning, started to rejoin his
comrades.

"It is possible that I may make use of you boys as messengers during
the battle, Dick," the general said. He had noted the disappointed
look on the youth's face, and doubtless thought the idea of being used
as messengers would please the boys.

It evidently pleased Dick, for he turned a beaming face toward the
general and said: "Thank you, General Putnam. If you have any messages
to send to the commanders of the other forces, at the front, we will be
glad to take them."

"Very well, Dick. It is likely that I shall want to send some
messages. You boys hold yourselves in readiness to take them."

"We will do so, sir."

Then Dick hastened back to his comrades and told them the result of
the interview. They were slightly disappointed because of not being
permitted to go and join the troops already engaged in fighting the
British, but were pleased with the idea of being sent to the
commanders with orders.

"I hope General Putnam will have a lot of messages to send," said Tom
Dare, his eyes shining with excitement.