"
"You will stop by on your return, will you not?" asked the girl.
"Yes, if I come this way; and I see no reason why I should not."
"I shall be ready to travel when you return," said Chester.
"All right," replied Hal. "But, if I have not returned in three days, you
will know something has happened to me, and you will make your way back
to Liege alone."
Chester agreed to this, the two lads shook hands, and Hal left the house
and set out upon his journey to Louvain.
CHAPTER XVI.
IN THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY.
Although it had been a trying morning for Hal, and he was very tired, the
lad continued on his way as swiftly as possible. From time to time, as he
hastened along, he heard the sound of distant firing, and he proceeded
with the greatest caution; but he encountered no more of the enemy.
It was late afternoon when he made out in the distance the town of
Louvain. He quickened his pace, and soon came upon the outposts.
"I have a communication for General Givet," he told the soldier who
stopped him.
The soldier lowered the weapon, with which he had barred the lad's
progress, and called a nearby officer. The latter led Hal to the
general's quarters.
Hal gave General Givet the letter, and stood at attention. The general
read in silence. Then he turned to Hal.
"All right," he said briefly, signifying that Hal might go.
"But, general," said the lad, "I was ordered to bring back your answer."
The general looked at him in surprise.
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