CHAPTER XXTHE GERMAN ENVOYS ARRIVEA third train drew into the station. Two French officers alighted first. These were the men who had been directed to receive the German representatives and accompany them to Marshal Foch's headquarters.The German delegates, who left the train immediately after them, presented a strange appearance. Garbed in German uniforms, their eyes were blindfolded. This precaution had been taken by direction of Marshal Foch in order that the delegates might not acquaint themselves with the allied strength and other military details as they passed through the lines.The German delegates were worn and travel-stained. It had been a hard trip through No Man's Land in an automobile. There they rode in the drizzling rain, over shell holes and under the most trying conditions. Consequently, they were not in the best of humor.Immediately upon alighting from the train that had brought them to Hirson, they were conducted to Marshal Foch's train.In the rear car, Marshal Foch was busy at his desk. This car was fitted out with all material comforts. It was the marshal's private car. In it he often slept and worked. It had all the comforts of home and bore some resemblance to a large parlor.His staff stood respectfully some distance away, while his guests, including Hal and Chester, were even farther back in the car.Came footsteps on the vestibule without. Instantly an air of excitement pervaded the car. Staff officers, trying to look unconcerned, failed miserably, and no wonder. Great events were impending. A man could hardly help showing the strain under which he was laboring.Marshal Foch was by all odds the coolest man in the car.Directly the door opened. In stepped the German delegates—five of them—and behind them came the French officers who had been their pilots.General Dupree arose to receive them. Marshal Foch was still busy at his desk. He did not look up.First the German envoys were allowed to remove the bandages from their eyes. Then they were presented to General Dupree, who acknowledged the introductions with a stiff salute."If it is your desire to speak with the commander-in-chief," he said to the Germans, "his excellency will grant you a brief interview. But he is very busy, so you must be brief."He spoke to the commander-in-chief, who laid down a sheaf of papers and rose to his feet.Marshal Foch and the Germans saluted stiffly. Introductions followed."You must be brief, gentlemen," said Marshal Foch. "My time is valuable."One of the Germans advanced."We have come," he said quietly, "to learn on what terms we may accept the armistice you have offered.""Armistice?" repeated Marshal Foch, "I have made no offer of an armistice."The German officer bit his lip."But I understood—" he began."Enough of this subterfuge," said Marshal Foch sternly. "It is my understanding that you come hither to request an armistice preliminary to negotiations for peace. If I am mistaken, we are losing valuable time."Marshal Foch saw plainly through the Germans' plan. It was to make it appear that the armistice had been offered by the allies, and not sought by the German high command. The French commander-in-chief realized, too, what effect this would have on the German people. It would bolster their flagging courage and might possibly result in many more months of war."But—" began the German again."It is idle to argue," said Marshal Foch. "As I say, I understood that the German high command seeks an end of this war. If so, I shall be glad to state my terms. If not, I shall order an advance along the whole front within two hours."The German delegate to whom had been assigned the role of spokesman bowed."It is our misfortune, sir," he said, "to ask for an armistice, in order that negotiations may be begun to put an end to further bloodshed.""That is different," said Marshal Foch. "In that case, I shall be glad to state my terms. Briefly, they are these: That Germany immediately surrender to the allies quantities of arms and ammunition, the amounts to be determined later; that a certain number of war vessels and other ships, including submarines, be turned over as evidence of good faith; that German troops, in a specified time, shall withdraw to the east banks of the Rhine. In a word, I demand such sacrifices as will preclude the possibility of Germany renewing the struggle."The German delegates uttered exclamations of protest."But, sir," said the spokesman, "Germany cannot submit to those terms.""Take them or leave them," said Marshal Foch, throwing wide his hands."Have I your permission to confer with my associates?" asked the spokesman.Marshal Foch produced his watch and laid it on his desk."I will allow you fifteen minutes," he replied.The Germans withdrew to the far end of the car, where they began an animated discussion. At last the spokesman again approached Marshal Foch and saluted."I am afraid," he began, "that it is not in our power to accept such conditions out of hand. It will be first necessary to obtain the consent of higher authorities than we chance to be.""Yes?" said Marshal Foch inquiringly.He had expected something like this."In which case," went on the German, "we have to request a cessation of hostilities while we return to our lines for further instructions."Marshal Foch shook his head."It is impossible," he said quietly.The German was surprised. Clearly he had expected nothing like this."But, sir," he protested, "it is utterly impossible for us to accept these conditions. We have not the authority. We must secure it from the high command.""That is your misfortune," said Marshal Foch."Then what are we to do?""You may return to your own lines at your own risk," said Marshal Foch. "I shall order firing stopped for a brief space that you may leave the allied lines; also, a flag of truce will be honored again, if you care to return. But in the interval, I propose to renew the fighting."Again the German delegates debated."If that is the best you can do, sir," said the spokesman at last, "we shall have to be content.""It is the best I can do," said Marshal Foch. "Now let me make a suggestion. It is perfectly plain that if the sentiments of the German high command are sincere, the sooner you return the better for all concerned. Do I make myself clear?""Perfectly, sir.""Then my suggestion is this. I shall place a fast army plane at your disposal that you may return to your own lines the quicker.""But we have no pilot," protested the German."I will furnish the pilot."A third time the Germans debated the matter."We accept, sir," said the spokesman at last.Marshal Foch surveyed the group of French officers in the car. Then his eyes fell on Hal and Chester."Major Paine!" he called.Hal stepped forward and saluted."If memory serves," said Marshal Foch, "you are an experienced air pilot?"Hal bowed his assent."Good," said the commander-in-chief, "then we need look no further for a pilot, gentlemen.""Major Crawford."Chester stepped forward and saluted."You will place yourself at the disposal of Major Paine, sir."Chester saluted again and stepped back."General Dupree!"The officer addressed stepped forward."You will present my compliments to the burgess of the town, and ask him to place his largest aircraft at your disposal."General Dupree left the car."I guess that is all, gentlemen," said Marshal Foch. "I shall remain here until to-morrow at this time, awaiting your return. If you are not back within that time I shall consider negotiations suspended!""Major Paine."Again Hal stepped forward."General Dupree, before you leave, will furnish you with a map showing where you may pass safely through our lines and at what hours fire will be remitted at certain points. It will be all the safeguard you need. I shall continue to advance in all other sectors. Good day, gentlemen."Marshal Foch saluted the Germans stiffly, and then signified that the interview was ended by turning again to his desk.Hal and Chester led the way from the car, closely followed by the German delegates. Outside, they encountered General Dupree, who announced that the large army plane would be ready within fifteen minutes.Hal then mentioned the map Marshal Foch had said General Dupree would provide, and the general hastened away to prepare it. He returned within a few minutes and placed the map in Hal's hands."I shall issue the necessary orders at once," he said.He, too, saluted the Germans again and then took his departure.Less than fifteen minutes later the mayor of the town himself hurried up."Follow me, gentlemen," he said with great dignity. "Your craft is ready."At the far side of the little town, Hal, Chester and the Germans came to the machine. No time was wasted in words. The Germans climbed in and Hal and Chester took their places."Let her go!" shouted Chester, to the men on the ground.The huge airplane began to move.CHAPTER XXISTUBBS' SCOOPTo keep in proper touch with all the characters in this story, it will be necessary for a few moments to go back several days and give an account of the activities of Anthony Stubbs, war correspondent of the New York Gazette.Now when Stubbs left Hal and Chester in Soissons he had, as he had told the lads, laid what he considered all necessary plans to make sure that he would be apprised of the signing of the armistice between Germany and the allies ahead of any other of the war correspondents in Europe.Reaching Versailles, Stubbs took quarters in one of the largest hotels. Now it is a fact, that in many quarters, even in Europe, it was thought that General Foch and the German delegates had come together several days before they really met. Stubbs, in constant touch with his source of information, from time to time received so-called details of progress of the proceedings supposed to be in progress.The little man was greatly elated. There were a score or more other war correspondents in Versailles and Stubbs managed to worm from them the fact that they were without information regarding the armistice. Believing his own information absolutely true, he naturally felt that he was a step or so ahead of his rivals.On the night of November 9, Stubbs retired early. The little man slept literally with one eye open. He didn't intend to miss anything.He came to himself with a start. The telephone bell in his room was jingling."Wonder who wants me at this hour?" he muttered sleepily, and turned over, for the moment losing sight of the fact that this might be the particular call he was so anxious to get.The bell continued to jingle."May as well answer it, I guess," said Stubbs. "It won't stop till I do."He climbed out of bed, switched on the lights and put the receiver to his ear."Hello," he said."Stubbs?" came a voice over the wire."Yes.""Admiral W— talking. The armistice was signed this morning at 11 o'clock.""What's that?" Stubbs yelled into the 'phone, jumping up and down excitedly. "Hello! Hello!"But the voice on the other end of the wire was gone.In vain Stubbs rattled the hook. He could not recall the voice."May be somebody trying to have some fun with me," muttered Stubbs. "I can't take a chance on any such message as that. I must verify it. I'll call the admiral and see if it were really he on the wire."It took him a good five minutes to get the connection, but at the end of that time a "hello" was wafted over the wire."Admiral W—?" demanded Stubbs."Yes.""This is Stubbs. Did you call me a moment ago?""Yes.""Then it is a fact that the armistice has been signed.""It is. I had my information not more than fifteen minutes ago.""I just wanted to make sure it was really you who called," Stubbs explained hurriedly. "Good-bye."He slapped the receiver back on the hook and literally flew into his clothes."No time for an elevator now," he muttered as he dashed out the door, through the hall and down the steps.In the lobby downstairs half a dozen war correspondents had gathered in a little knot. They came to their feet as Stubbs dashed down the steps."What's the matter, Stubbs?" one called.But Stubbs did not stop to reply. Out the door he dashed, his coat trailing behind him.It was perhaps half a dozen blocks to the cable office. Stubbs covered the distance in jig time, formulating his message in his mind as he went."No time for details now," he muttered. "Just the flash. I'll get the details later."Into the cable office he dashed.Behind him the little knot of correspondents became alarmed."The little man knows something," said one of them. "Don't suppose the armistice could have been signed, do you?""Not a chance," said another. "We'd have the word.""Well, Stubbs was in a terrible hurry about something," said a third. "We'd better get busy and find out what it's all about."They sprang to action."I'll go after him," said Jennings of The World. "The rest of you fellows get busy on the 'phone. Call every man in authority in the city. Some of them will know something. Doesn't matter whether they kick about being called at this hour or not. Get busy."He dashed out the door after Stubbs.In the cable office Stubbs grabbed a blank and wrote, in code:"Armistice signed this a.m. at eleven o'clock at Hirson. Stubbs."The message he handed to the clerk with instructions to rush it."That'll be enough," said Stubbs. "They'll know at the office what to do with it. They'll probably write columns at that end describing the scenes at Hirson between Marshal Foch and the German delegates. There'll be pictures and everything. Now I'll go and learn a few of the details."He encountered Jennings of The World as he moved toward the door."Look here, Stubbs," said Jennings, "why all this rush. You're not going to leave the rest of us out in the cold, are you?"Stubbs smiled."I'm not working for you fellows," he replied. "The New York Gazette is paying me my weekly stipend, but I don't mind saying I've landed a big piece of news."Jennings attempted to minimize the matter."Oh, I guess it's not so terribly big," he said.Again Stubbs smiled."Guess again," he said."But I say, Stubbs, give me a hint.""Not a hint," declared Stubbs."Well, all right," said Jennings, "but you'll be sorry.""Not half as sorry as the rest of you'll be when you hear from home after The Gazette is on the street," declared Stubbs.Jennings looked at Stubbs closely. The latter was clearly excited."By Jove! He must know something," Jennings decided. "I can't waste time here."He turned on his heel and was gone.An hour later, after Stubbs had made ineffectual efforts to learn from Admiral W— details of the signing of the armistice, he gave it up for the night."I know no more than I have told you," said the admiral. "I should have the details in the morning. Call me then."Stubbs returned to his hotel. Again he was surrounded by the other correspondents who, after trying all their channels of news, had failed to learn anything of importance."Come across, Stubbs," said one."Not yet," said Stubbs. "But I'll tell you what. I'll give you my news one hour from now. That will assure The Gazette of a beat."He remained deaf to all urging, and directly the other correspondents gave it up as a bad job.Jennings, watch in hand, an hour later said."Come, Stubbs, time's up. What's your news?""Well," said Stubbs quietly and with an air of great importance, "the armistice has been signed.""What?" yelled Jennings. "You're crazy, man! There has been no conference yet.""Nevertheless, it's true," said Stubbs. "I have my information from unimpeachable sources.""Who told you?" demanded Timothy, of The Mail."You've been in the game long enough to know a newspaperman doesn't divulge the source of information, Timothy," said Stubbs. "Nevertheless, I can say that it came from a very high source.""Well," said Jennings, "I don't believe it. I'm not going to flash my paper on any such information. I'm standing pat.""Same here," declared Timothy."And here," "and here," chimed in the others."Suit yourselves," said Stubbs with a shrug. "You'll probably get the word in the morning."He returned to his room.In spite of the fact that the other correspondents declined to take Stubbs' words as gospel, it was an uneasy group of men Stubbs left behind him.All night long they tried in vain to confirm the signing of the armistice. It could not be done.Stubbs came downstairs again at 7 o'clock. Once more he was surrounded by the correspondents."Boys," he said, "I shall call my source of information now. If I get the details, I will tell you where you can verify them."He entered a telephone booth, where he remained for perhaps ten minutes. When he emerged again, his face was drawn and he walked with the air of a man who has lost his last friend."Well," demanded Jennings, "what have you to tell us?""Boys," said Stubbs slowly, "my days in the newspaper business are ended. I have just committed the cardinal sin. I have sent false information to my paper, though in good faith. The armistice has not been signed. Admiral W— has just informed me his information was premature. What his message should have said is that the conference is in session. My resignation shall be cabled to The Gazette together with my retraction."Sadly the little man walked away."By Jove! that is tough," commented Timothy. "Yet, with such information I should have done the same. Well, our jobs are saved, but I'll bet Stubbs' resignation will be unnecessary. He's fired right now, though he doesn't know it."And so it was none other than Anthony Stubbs who was responsible for the premature flash that reached America that the armistice had been signed. Every city in the United States, almost, when the news was heard, had declared a holiday. Hours and days passed and still the news could not be confirmed. And then the state department issued a statement denying it. The feeling of happiness changed to disappointment.But in the French city of Versailles Anthony Stubbs was, at the moment perhaps, the most disappointed man in the world.CHAPTER XXIISPAThe German envoys, returning to their own lines, were silent as the big airplane driven by Hal sped across the allied lines. Eyes below were strained as the craft dashed along, for news traveled swiftly among the soldiers and word that the preliminary meeting between the German delegates and Marshal Foch had not been entirely satisfactory had spread among the troops.As General Dupree had told Hal, firing ceased in the zone that the airplane traversed. Guns snorted and bullets flew on all other sides, but Hal, laying his course by the map General Dupree had given him, avoided all danger.From the spokesman of the German delegates Hal had learned that their destination was the little German village of Spa. It was there that the German emperor and the High Command was quartered. Hal laid the nose of the airplane in that direction.Now, in flying, great distance can be covered in a very short period of time. The plane that Hal drove was capable of making almost 200 miles an hour under proper conditions. Hal, however, did not attempt to get that speed out of the machine. Flying well above the ground, the craft sped quietly along at something like 100 miles an hour.It was dark when they passed across the brief expanse of No Man's Land. Looking down, Chester saw a few twinkling lights. These, he knew, came from the German positions. Some were signal lights for the enemy aircraft, others just the lights usually to be found in a great army encampment.Chester leaned forward and touched Hal on the shoulder."Sure you have the right course?" he asked."Perfectly," was Hal's response, his voice raised almost to a shout to make himself heard above the humming of the motor and the purr of the giant wings of the aircraft.Chester sat back, apparently satisfied.The lights displayed among the German troops disappeared as the plane continued its journey toward the northeast. Soon, however, other lights came into view below."This," said Hal, "should be Spa, unless my geography and sense of direction are all wrong. I'll take a chance, at all events."Almost above a score of the lights, Hal shut off the motor and the machine began to descend. A short time later it came quietly to earth just beyond the village. Hal scrambled out and spoke to the Germans."This should be Spa, according to my calculations," he said. "Correct me if I am wrong.""You are right, sir," said one of the German delegates. "You have done well in bringing us here in such a short period of time."The Germans alighted, and Chester also scrambled out."If you will come with us," said the spokesman of the enemy mission to the lads, "we will see that you are provided with quarters for the night. It is hardly possible that we will return before to-morrow at noon, if at all."The lads followed the Germans into the town. Before a building somewhat larger than the rest, the men stopped and the one who appeared to be leader of the party said:"You gentlemen wait here. I will go within and see that quarters are provided for the young Americans."He motioned the lads to follow him, which they did. Inside a German officer barred their progress, but the German soon set the man's doubts at rest, and the latter stepped aside."Captain," said the German envoy, "these gentlemen have brought us back from the allied lines, and will conduct us there again to-morrow should it be necessary for us to go. You will kindly see that they have all necessary accommodations for the night.""Yes, sir," said the captain."Then I shall leave them to you. I will return for them to-morrow some time.""Very well, sir."The German bade the lads good night and took his departure. The German captain addressed them."Kindly follow me, sirs," he said.The lads did so. Along a long hall they were led. Then they turned into a large room at the far end of the hall. Inside were a dozen or more German officers. The captain led the way toward a door across the room. All eyes were turned on the lads as they stepped across the room.Suddenly there came an exclamation from a man who sat near, as Hal and Chester passed. A chair scraped the floor and a man sprang up and confronted them. Hal and Chester looked into the eyes of General Knoff, the German general whose daughter Chester had befriended in Sedan some weeks before."So," said the general confronting the lads with a gleam of anger in his eyes, but his gaze resting particularly upon Hal, "so you made fools of me in Sedan, eh?"Hal smiled. He was perfectly safe now and he knew it. Not a man there nor in the German lines any place for that matter would dare harm the officer who had piloted the German envoys back from their tryst with Marshal Foch."It had to be done, General," said Hal, still smiling."But," protested the general, "why was it necessary for you to pick me for your tool?""We wouldn't have done that, General," said Hal, "had you not been so insistent upon our having breakfast with you.""Well," said General Knoff, "it would appear that the fates are just, after all. I have no doubt that it was information you gained from me that spoiled our plans.""I have no doubt of it either, sir," Hal smiled."And such being the case," the general continued, "I shall see to it that you are tried as spies.""But we are in American uniform now, sir," said Hal."You weren't then," was the reply, "as I stand willing to prove. No; I shall have you shot. No man can make a fool of me and live.""You can't do that, sir," said Hal, quietly."I can't, eh?" exclaimed the general. "I would like to know what is to prevent me?"Hal's smile seemed to infuriate the general."Captain," he said, "you will place these men under arrest."The German captain saluted respectfully, but he shook his head."It is impossible, sir," he said."What's that?" demanded General Knoff angrily. "Do you dare dispute my orders?""Only when I have previously received commands from your superiors, sir," was the reply."What do you mean?""These young Americans," the captain explained, "have safe conduct in our lines. I only know they have piloted our delegates who have been discussing an armistice with the French commander-in-chief. I cannot arrest them, sir.""I see," said General Knoff. "You are perfectly right, captain."He stepped close to Chester and extended a hand."As a military measure," he said, "I would have you shot for what I know, but I want to thank you again for a service you rendered me in Sedan."Chester was taken absolutely by surprise. Nevertheless he grasped the general's hand, for that was what seemed to be expected of him."I am glad I was on hand at such an opportune moment, sir," the lad replied."So am I," said the general. "You know my name, of course. When the war is over, should you chance to be in Berlin, it would give me pleasure to entertain you at my home in Berlin.""Thank you, sir," said Chester. "Should I chance to be in Berlin at any time, I shall avail myself of your offer, sir."The general bowed slightly, insisted on shaking hands with Hal also, and then said:"Well, gentlemen, you are probably tired from your trip, so I will not detain you longer. Captain, I leave the young Americans to you."The lads followed the German captain from the room.Their quarters for the night were commodious, though not richly furnished. However, as Hal said: "I have slept in whole lot more unpleasant places and thought I was doing well.""It's plenty good for me," Chester agreed. "By the way, Hal, has it occurred to you that we may return to Hirson to-morrow alone?""What do you mean?""Why, that the German high command may refuse to accept Marshal Foch's terms, and refuse to negotiate farther.""Hardly likely," said Hal. "My view is that the Germans are so anxious for peace that they will accept almost any terms.""I hope I'm wrong, of course," said Chester. "but I am simply judging by what one of the envoys said about 'if' they returned to-morrow.""I heard him," said Hal, "but at the same time I don't take much stock in any such statement. In the first place, these envoys don't have any more to say about what terms they shall accept than I do.""Oh, they don't, eh?""Of course not. It is the German high command, that will make that decision. The delegates will do whatever they are instructed to do. They are merely the representatives of the powers that be.""Nevertheless," said Chester, "if they sign terms, the terms will be binding.""Of course; unless it should be that the Germans consider the agreement simply another 'scrap of paper,' as they did the Belgian treaty.""I think the Germans have learned a thing or two," said Chester. "I don't believe they'll ever try such tactics again. They have at least learned that the majority of nations are honorable, and that they are in honor bound to respect treaties.""Let us hope so," said Hal. "Now we've talked enough. I vote we turn in. We may have a hard day to-morrow.""All right. It suits me. And here is one night we will sleep within the German lines in comfort, for we will not have to be on the watch for enemies and fear possible discovery.""Right," agreed Hal, "and at the same time we are here in the line of duty. Well, me for the hay.""Not a very elegant expression, perhaps," said Chester with a grin, "but very much to the point. Me for the hay, too."Ten minutes later both lads were fast asleep.CHAPTER XXIIITHE KAISER ABDICATESIt was another historic conference that Hal and Chester attended the following morning. It is true they were not invited guests; neither, perhaps, were they supposed to overhear the nature of historical facts as they were written that day. It was, most likely, an oversight that permitted them to be near when the German emperor signed a formal decree of abdication.It still lacked a few minutes of 7 o'clock on the morning of November 10 when Hal and Chester turned out, greatly refreshed by a good night's sleep. They strolled from the house where they had spent the night, and for perhaps an hour took in the sights about the German city. Then they returned to their temporary quarters, for, as Hal said, "there is no telling when we shall be wanted and it is just as well to be there."It was half an hour later when a German officer appeared and instructed them to follow him. This the lads did without hesitancy. Their guide led them to a distant part of the village, where an extraordinary array of tents told the lads that they were near important personages in the German ranks. The guide showed them into a tent somewhat smaller than the rest, where he left them.After they had been alone perhaps twenty minutes, Hal explored."Well," he said, "if these fellows don't hurry they won't get back to Marshal Foch's rendezvous until too late.""Oh, I guess they'll get there in time all right," replied Chester. "At least they will if they know what's good for them."Meanwhile Hal, peering through the canvass door at one end of the tent, ascertained that the door of the second tent in some unaccountable manner had been left open. Also, the lad perceived that the tent was filled with uniformed figures."Something going on," he said to Chester in a low voice.Chester stepped forward and peered over Hal's shoulder."There certainly is," he agreed. "Wonder if we will be able to hear what they say?""I guess we can," said Hal. "I don't like to eavesdrop, but we might learn something that will help.""I guess the end will justify the means," said Chester.They became silent.It was clear to both lads that the figures in the tent were awaiting the arrival of another person. And presently the latter came; and when he entered, the tent both lads stifled exclamations of surprise with difficulty."Well, what do you think of that!" Chester ejaculated."By Jove! I didn't know he was in this part of the field," said Hal.For the man who had just entered the tent was none other than the German Emperor, Wilhelm II.Gazing more closely, the lads made out other familiar figures. There was, first, General Ludendorff, chief of the German staff; General Von Hindenburg, and newly created Chancellor Ebert. Also the tent was crowded with other notables, both military and civilian.It was the kaiser who spoke first. Straining their ears, the lads were able to catch every word that was uttered."Well, gentlemen," said the kaiser, "I am here at your request. What is it you desire of me?"It was General Ludendorff who replied."Your majesty, it is my painful duty to acquaint you with the terms laid down by the enemy commander-in-chief.""What are they?" demanded the kaiser briefly.In as few words as possible, General Von Ludendorff outlined the terms of an armistice as Marshal Foch had presented them to the German envoys.The kaiser fidgeted impatiently until his chief general had concluded. Then he burst out:"We shall accept no such terms."General Ludendorff bowed."As I supposed you would answer, your majesty. Nevertheless, it again becomes my duty to acquaint you with other unpleasant facts."The German emperor appeared surprised."Explain, sir," he said briefly.Again General Ludendorff bowed."Well, your majesty," he said, "it must be plain to you that the war is lost to German arms.""Not at all," said the kaiser. "I still have millions of men in the field, and there are others who yet may take up arms.""Very true," said General Ludendorff, "they may be able to take up arms if they will. The trouble is, your majesty, that they probably will decline longer to wage a losing fight."The German emperor started back."What!" he exclaimed in a loud voice. "The German soldier refuse to obey my commands?""Exactly, your majesty," said General Ludendorff."Any such men shall be instantly shot," declared the kaiser."That would be all very well, Sire," said General Ludendorff, "if there remained any to carry out the sentence of execution."The kaiser began to catch a glimmer of the true situation."You mean," he asked in a low voice, "that my men will refuse to fight longer?"Again General Ludendorff bowed."Precisely, your majesty," he said quietly.The kaiser dropped abruptly into a chair."I should have been warned," he muttered. "I should have been warned. For years I have seen this coming, and yet I would not take heed."He rose to his feet again."Tell me," he said to General Von Ludendorff, "what are your sentiments in this matter, General?""The same as the sentiments of the soldiers, your majesty.""You mean that I must accept the enemy's terms?""Yes, your majesty.""Well, I won't do it.""There is yet an alternative," said General Ludendorff slowly."And that?" demanded the kaiser, his voice hopeful."Abdication," said General Ludendorff quietly."What!"The kaiser stepped quickly forward and raised his right hand. General Ludendorff stepped quickly back several paces."I should strike you down where you stand," said the kaiser, lowering his arm and letting his hand play with the hilt of the sword that he wore at his side. "Give up my throne, and throw my people upon the mercy of the enemy?""The people would be very glad to be thrown upon such mercy," said General Von Hindenburg, now stepping forward. "Your majesty, let me add my voice to that of General Ludendorff. I have fought for you as best I know how, but it has been a losing fight, as we have known, almost from the first. Something must be done, and that at once.""Then you, too, general, urge that I renounce the throne?""I do, Sire, most emphatically."The kaiser's face grew grave. Apparently such a thing as abdication had never entered his head."Well, gentlemen," he said at last, "I shall give my decision when my son, the Crown Prince, arrives, which should be in a very few moments."The officers in the tent bowed low. Wilhelm II was still emperor, and would be until he had signed a formal decree of abdication. As officers of the emperor it was the duty of every man present to serve him.As the kaiser had predicted, the Crown Prince, known more familiarly in allied circles as the "clown prince," because of his peculiar appearance, entered the tent.He slapped his father familiarly on the shoulder."What's the matter?" he demanded. "Have the allies taken Berlin?"The kaiser smiled feebly."Even worse, if possible, son," he said. "These gentlemen here," and he swept the interior of the tent with his arm, "ask that I renounce the throne of Germany so that my people may have peace."The Crown Prince stepped back as though he had received a blow in the face. He recovered himself quickly, however, and said quietly."Please repeat that again, Sire."The kaiser did so, and for a space of perhaps five minutes there was silence in the tent. Then the Crown Prince said:"Well, Sire, what are you going to do?""Abdicate," said the kaiser briefly. "I shall abdicate in your favor. You may treat with the enemy.""Hold on," ejaculated the Crown Prince. "You don't need to abdicate in my favor, sir. I don't want to be emperor, not under present conditions.""Are you afraid?" demanded the kaiser sternly.The Crown Prince was not to be bluffed like that."Maybe I am, and maybe I'm not," he said doggedly; "but I'm not going to be left in any such plight as this. You may wager on that, sir. If you abdicate in my favor, I shall follow suit, your majesty.""As you will," said the kaiser. "I, at least, shall abdicate, and that at once. General Ludendorff; how soon can you have the necessary papers prepared?""I have already had them prepared, your majesty," was General Ludendorff's response. "I had hoped that you might see the light.""Play the coward, you mean, eh?" said the kaiser. "But no matter. Put the paper before me and I shall sign."From his pocket the general produced a long parchment, which he laid on the table. As his officers gathered about him, the German emperor read the paper carefully."You don't seem to have had much doubt about how I would act," he commented dryly. "Well, perhaps it is for the best."He seized a pen and scrawled his name across the paper. He stepped back and looked at General Ludendorff."Perhaps," he said, "you have Had a similar paper drawn for the Crown Prince to sign?""I have," said General Ludendorff briefly. "I have overlooked nothing, Sire.""So it would seem," said the Crown Prince angrily, "but I shall sign just the same."He attached his signature to a second paper produced by General Ludendorff.And thus ended the rule of the family of Hohenzollern.
CHAPTER XX
THE GERMAN ENVOYS ARRIVE
A third train drew into the station. Two French officers alighted first. These were the men who had been directed to receive the German representatives and accompany them to Marshal Foch's headquarters.
The German delegates, who left the train immediately after them, presented a strange appearance. Garbed in German uniforms, their eyes were blindfolded. This precaution had been taken by direction of Marshal Foch in order that the delegates might not acquaint themselves with the allied strength and other military details as they passed through the lines.
The German delegates were worn and travel-stained. It had been a hard trip through No Man's Land in an automobile. There they rode in the drizzling rain, over shell holes and under the most trying conditions. Consequently, they were not in the best of humor.
Immediately upon alighting from the train that had brought them to Hirson, they were conducted to Marshal Foch's train.
In the rear car, Marshal Foch was busy at his desk. This car was fitted out with all material comforts. It was the marshal's private car. In it he often slept and worked. It had all the comforts of home and bore some resemblance to a large parlor.
His staff stood respectfully some distance away, while his guests, including Hal and Chester, were even farther back in the car.
Came footsteps on the vestibule without. Instantly an air of excitement pervaded the car. Staff officers, trying to look unconcerned, failed miserably, and no wonder. Great events were impending. A man could hardly help showing the strain under which he was laboring.
Marshal Foch was by all odds the coolest man in the car.
Directly the door opened. In stepped the German delegates—five of them—and behind them came the French officers who had been their pilots.
General Dupree arose to receive them. Marshal Foch was still busy at his desk. He did not look up.
First the German envoys were allowed to remove the bandages from their eyes. Then they were presented to General Dupree, who acknowledged the introductions with a stiff salute.
"If it is your desire to speak with the commander-in-chief," he said to the Germans, "his excellency will grant you a brief interview. But he is very busy, so you must be brief."
He spoke to the commander-in-chief, who laid down a sheaf of papers and rose to his feet.
Marshal Foch and the Germans saluted stiffly. Introductions followed.
"You must be brief, gentlemen," said Marshal Foch. "My time is valuable."
One of the Germans advanced.
"We have come," he said quietly, "to learn on what terms we may accept the armistice you have offered."
"Armistice?" repeated Marshal Foch, "I have made no offer of an armistice."
The German officer bit his lip.
"But I understood—" he began.
"Enough of this subterfuge," said Marshal Foch sternly. "It is my understanding that you come hither to request an armistice preliminary to negotiations for peace. If I am mistaken, we are losing valuable time."
Marshal Foch saw plainly through the Germans' plan. It was to make it appear that the armistice had been offered by the allies, and not sought by the German high command. The French commander-in-chief realized, too, what effect this would have on the German people. It would bolster their flagging courage and might possibly result in many more months of war.
"But—" began the German again.
"It is idle to argue," said Marshal Foch. "As I say, I understood that the German high command seeks an end of this war. If so, I shall be glad to state my terms. If not, I shall order an advance along the whole front within two hours."
The German delegate to whom had been assigned the role of spokesman bowed.
"It is our misfortune, sir," he said, "to ask for an armistice, in order that negotiations may be begun to put an end to further bloodshed."
"That is different," said Marshal Foch. "In that case, I shall be glad to state my terms. Briefly, they are these: That Germany immediately surrender to the allies quantities of arms and ammunition, the amounts to be determined later; that a certain number of war vessels and other ships, including submarines, be turned over as evidence of good faith; that German troops, in a specified time, shall withdraw to the east banks of the Rhine. In a word, I demand such sacrifices as will preclude the possibility of Germany renewing the struggle."
The German delegates uttered exclamations of protest.
"But, sir," said the spokesman, "Germany cannot submit to those terms."
"Take them or leave them," said Marshal Foch, throwing wide his hands.
"Have I your permission to confer with my associates?" asked the spokesman.
Marshal Foch produced his watch and laid it on his desk.
"I will allow you fifteen minutes," he replied.
The Germans withdrew to the far end of the car, where they began an animated discussion. At last the spokesman again approached Marshal Foch and saluted.
"I am afraid," he began, "that it is not in our power to accept such conditions out of hand. It will be first necessary to obtain the consent of higher authorities than we chance to be."
"Yes?" said Marshal Foch inquiringly.
He had expected something like this.
"In which case," went on the German, "we have to request a cessation of hostilities while we return to our lines for further instructions."
Marshal Foch shook his head.
"It is impossible," he said quietly.
The German was surprised. Clearly he had expected nothing like this.
"But, sir," he protested, "it is utterly impossible for us to accept these conditions. We have not the authority. We must secure it from the high command."
"That is your misfortune," said Marshal Foch.
"Then what are we to do?"
"You may return to your own lines at your own risk," said Marshal Foch. "I shall order firing stopped for a brief space that you may leave the allied lines; also, a flag of truce will be honored again, if you care to return. But in the interval, I propose to renew the fighting."
Again the German delegates debated.
"If that is the best you can do, sir," said the spokesman at last, "we shall have to be content."
"It is the best I can do," said Marshal Foch. "Now let me make a suggestion. It is perfectly plain that if the sentiments of the German high command are sincere, the sooner you return the better for all concerned. Do I make myself clear?"
"Perfectly, sir."
"Then my suggestion is this. I shall place a fast army plane at your disposal that you may return to your own lines the quicker."
"But we have no pilot," protested the German.
"I will furnish the pilot."
A third time the Germans debated the matter.
"We accept, sir," said the spokesman at last.
Marshal Foch surveyed the group of French officers in the car. Then his eyes fell on Hal and Chester.
"Major Paine!" he called.
Hal stepped forward and saluted.
"If memory serves," said Marshal Foch, "you are an experienced air pilot?"
Hal bowed his assent.
"Good," said the commander-in-chief, "then we need look no further for a pilot, gentlemen."
"Major Crawford."
Chester stepped forward and saluted.
"You will place yourself at the disposal of Major Paine, sir."
Chester saluted again and stepped back.
"General Dupree!"
The officer addressed stepped forward.
"You will present my compliments to the burgess of the town, and ask him to place his largest aircraft at your disposal."
General Dupree left the car.
"I guess that is all, gentlemen," said Marshal Foch. "I shall remain here until to-morrow at this time, awaiting your return. If you are not back within that time I shall consider negotiations suspended!"
"Major Paine."
Again Hal stepped forward.
"General Dupree, before you leave, will furnish you with a map showing where you may pass safely through our lines and at what hours fire will be remitted at certain points. It will be all the safeguard you need. I shall continue to advance in all other sectors. Good day, gentlemen."
Marshal Foch saluted the Germans stiffly, and then signified that the interview was ended by turning again to his desk.
Hal and Chester led the way from the car, closely followed by the German delegates. Outside, they encountered General Dupree, who announced that the large army plane would be ready within fifteen minutes.
Hal then mentioned the map Marshal Foch had said General Dupree would provide, and the general hastened away to prepare it. He returned within a few minutes and placed the map in Hal's hands.
"I shall issue the necessary orders at once," he said.
He, too, saluted the Germans again and then took his departure.
Less than fifteen minutes later the mayor of the town himself hurried up.
"Follow me, gentlemen," he said with great dignity. "Your craft is ready."
At the far side of the little town, Hal, Chester and the Germans came to the machine. No time was wasted in words. The Germans climbed in and Hal and Chester took their places.
"Let her go!" shouted Chester, to the men on the ground.
The huge airplane began to move.
CHAPTER XXI
STUBBS' SCOOP
To keep in proper touch with all the characters in this story, it will be necessary for a few moments to go back several days and give an account of the activities of Anthony Stubbs, war correspondent of the New York Gazette.
Now when Stubbs left Hal and Chester in Soissons he had, as he had told the lads, laid what he considered all necessary plans to make sure that he would be apprised of the signing of the armistice between Germany and the allies ahead of any other of the war correspondents in Europe.
Reaching Versailles, Stubbs took quarters in one of the largest hotels. Now it is a fact, that in many quarters, even in Europe, it was thought that General Foch and the German delegates had come together several days before they really met. Stubbs, in constant touch with his source of information, from time to time received so-called details of progress of the proceedings supposed to be in progress.
The little man was greatly elated. There were a score or more other war correspondents in Versailles and Stubbs managed to worm from them the fact that they were without information regarding the armistice. Believing his own information absolutely true, he naturally felt that he was a step or so ahead of his rivals.
On the night of November 9, Stubbs retired early. The little man slept literally with one eye open. He didn't intend to miss anything.
He came to himself with a start. The telephone bell in his room was jingling.
"Wonder who wants me at this hour?" he muttered sleepily, and turned over, for the moment losing sight of the fact that this might be the particular call he was so anxious to get.
The bell continued to jingle.
"May as well answer it, I guess," said Stubbs. "It won't stop till I do."
He climbed out of bed, switched on the lights and put the receiver to his ear.
"Hello," he said.
"Stubbs?" came a voice over the wire.
"Yes."
"Admiral W— talking. The armistice was signed this morning at 11 o'clock."
"What's that?" Stubbs yelled into the 'phone, jumping up and down excitedly. "Hello! Hello!"
But the voice on the other end of the wire was gone.
In vain Stubbs rattled the hook. He could not recall the voice.
"May be somebody trying to have some fun with me," muttered Stubbs. "I can't take a chance on any such message as that. I must verify it. I'll call the admiral and see if it were really he on the wire."
It took him a good five minutes to get the connection, but at the end of that time a "hello" was wafted over the wire.
"Admiral W—?" demanded Stubbs.
"Yes."
"This is Stubbs. Did you call me a moment ago?"
"Yes."
"Then it is a fact that the armistice has been signed."
"It is. I had my information not more than fifteen minutes ago."
"I just wanted to make sure it was really you who called," Stubbs explained hurriedly. "Good-bye."
He slapped the receiver back on the hook and literally flew into his clothes.
"No time for an elevator now," he muttered as he dashed out the door, through the hall and down the steps.
In the lobby downstairs half a dozen war correspondents had gathered in a little knot. They came to their feet as Stubbs dashed down the steps.
"What's the matter, Stubbs?" one called.
But Stubbs did not stop to reply. Out the door he dashed, his coat trailing behind him.
It was perhaps half a dozen blocks to the cable office. Stubbs covered the distance in jig time, formulating his message in his mind as he went.
"No time for details now," he muttered. "Just the flash. I'll get the details later."
Into the cable office he dashed.
Behind him the little knot of correspondents became alarmed.
"The little man knows something," said one of them. "Don't suppose the armistice could have been signed, do you?"
"Not a chance," said another. "We'd have the word."
"Well, Stubbs was in a terrible hurry about something," said a third. "We'd better get busy and find out what it's all about."
They sprang to action.
"I'll go after him," said Jennings of The World. "The rest of you fellows get busy on the 'phone. Call every man in authority in the city. Some of them will know something. Doesn't matter whether they kick about being called at this hour or not. Get busy."
He dashed out the door after Stubbs.
In the cable office Stubbs grabbed a blank and wrote, in code:
"Armistice signed this a.m. at eleven o'clock at Hirson. Stubbs."
The message he handed to the clerk with instructions to rush it.
"That'll be enough," said Stubbs. "They'll know at the office what to do with it. They'll probably write columns at that end describing the scenes at Hirson between Marshal Foch and the German delegates. There'll be pictures and everything. Now I'll go and learn a few of the details."
He encountered Jennings of The World as he moved toward the door.
"Look here, Stubbs," said Jennings, "why all this rush. You're not going to leave the rest of us out in the cold, are you?"
Stubbs smiled.
"I'm not working for you fellows," he replied. "The New York Gazette is paying me my weekly stipend, but I don't mind saying I've landed a big piece of news."
Jennings attempted to minimize the matter.
"Oh, I guess it's not so terribly big," he said.
Again Stubbs smiled.
"Guess again," he said.
"But I say, Stubbs, give me a hint."
"Not a hint," declared Stubbs.
"Well, all right," said Jennings, "but you'll be sorry."
"Not half as sorry as the rest of you'll be when you hear from home after The Gazette is on the street," declared Stubbs.
Jennings looked at Stubbs closely. The latter was clearly excited.
"By Jove! He must know something," Jennings decided. "I can't waste time here."
He turned on his heel and was gone.
An hour later, after Stubbs had made ineffectual efforts to learn from Admiral W— details of the signing of the armistice, he gave it up for the night.
"I know no more than I have told you," said the admiral. "I should have the details in the morning. Call me then."
Stubbs returned to his hotel. Again he was surrounded by the other correspondents who, after trying all their channels of news, had failed to learn anything of importance.
"Come across, Stubbs," said one.
"Not yet," said Stubbs. "But I'll tell you what. I'll give you my news one hour from now. That will assure The Gazette of a beat."
He remained deaf to all urging, and directly the other correspondents gave it up as a bad job.
Jennings, watch in hand, an hour later said.
"Come, Stubbs, time's up. What's your news?"
"Well," said Stubbs quietly and with an air of great importance, "the armistice has been signed."
"What?" yelled Jennings. "You're crazy, man! There has been no conference yet."
"Nevertheless, it's true," said Stubbs. "I have my information from unimpeachable sources."
"Who told you?" demanded Timothy, of The Mail.
"You've been in the game long enough to know a newspaperman doesn't divulge the source of information, Timothy," said Stubbs. "Nevertheless, I can say that it came from a very high source."
"Well," said Jennings, "I don't believe it. I'm not going to flash my paper on any such information. I'm standing pat."
"Same here," declared Timothy.
"And here," "and here," chimed in the others.
"Suit yourselves," said Stubbs with a shrug. "You'll probably get the word in the morning."
He returned to his room.
In spite of the fact that the other correspondents declined to take Stubbs' words as gospel, it was an uneasy group of men Stubbs left behind him.
All night long they tried in vain to confirm the signing of the armistice. It could not be done.
Stubbs came downstairs again at 7 o'clock. Once more he was surrounded by the correspondents.
"Boys," he said, "I shall call my source of information now. If I get the details, I will tell you where you can verify them."
He entered a telephone booth, where he remained for perhaps ten minutes. When he emerged again, his face was drawn and he walked with the air of a man who has lost his last friend.
"Well," demanded Jennings, "what have you to tell us?"
"Boys," said Stubbs slowly, "my days in the newspaper business are ended. I have just committed the cardinal sin. I have sent false information to my paper, though in good faith. The armistice has not been signed. Admiral W— has just informed me his information was premature. What his message should have said is that the conference is in session. My resignation shall be cabled to The Gazette together with my retraction."
Sadly the little man walked away.
"By Jove! that is tough," commented Timothy. "Yet, with such information I should have done the same. Well, our jobs are saved, but I'll bet Stubbs' resignation will be unnecessary. He's fired right now, though he doesn't know it."
And so it was none other than Anthony Stubbs who was responsible for the premature flash that reached America that the armistice had been signed. Every city in the United States, almost, when the news was heard, had declared a holiday. Hours and days passed and still the news could not be confirmed. And then the state department issued a statement denying it. The feeling of happiness changed to disappointment.
But in the French city of Versailles Anthony Stubbs was, at the moment perhaps, the most disappointed man in the world.
CHAPTER XXII
SPA
The German envoys, returning to their own lines, were silent as the big airplane driven by Hal sped across the allied lines. Eyes below were strained as the craft dashed along, for news traveled swiftly among the soldiers and word that the preliminary meeting between the German delegates and Marshal Foch had not been entirely satisfactory had spread among the troops.
As General Dupree had told Hal, firing ceased in the zone that the airplane traversed. Guns snorted and bullets flew on all other sides, but Hal, laying his course by the map General Dupree had given him, avoided all danger.
From the spokesman of the German delegates Hal had learned that their destination was the little German village of Spa. It was there that the German emperor and the High Command was quartered. Hal laid the nose of the airplane in that direction.
Now, in flying, great distance can be covered in a very short period of time. The plane that Hal drove was capable of making almost 200 miles an hour under proper conditions. Hal, however, did not attempt to get that speed out of the machine. Flying well above the ground, the craft sped quietly along at something like 100 miles an hour.
It was dark when they passed across the brief expanse of No Man's Land. Looking down, Chester saw a few twinkling lights. These, he knew, came from the German positions. Some were signal lights for the enemy aircraft, others just the lights usually to be found in a great army encampment.
Chester leaned forward and touched Hal on the shoulder.
"Sure you have the right course?" he asked.
"Perfectly," was Hal's response, his voice raised almost to a shout to make himself heard above the humming of the motor and the purr of the giant wings of the aircraft.
Chester sat back, apparently satisfied.
The lights displayed among the German troops disappeared as the plane continued its journey toward the northeast. Soon, however, other lights came into view below.
"This," said Hal, "should be Spa, unless my geography and sense of direction are all wrong. I'll take a chance, at all events."
Almost above a score of the lights, Hal shut off the motor and the machine began to descend. A short time later it came quietly to earth just beyond the village. Hal scrambled out and spoke to the Germans.
"This should be Spa, according to my calculations," he said. "Correct me if I am wrong."
"You are right, sir," said one of the German delegates. "You have done well in bringing us here in such a short period of time."
The Germans alighted, and Chester also scrambled out.
"If you will come with us," said the spokesman of the enemy mission to the lads, "we will see that you are provided with quarters for the night. It is hardly possible that we will return before to-morrow at noon, if at all."
The lads followed the Germans into the town. Before a building somewhat larger than the rest, the men stopped and the one who appeared to be leader of the party said:
"You gentlemen wait here. I will go within and see that quarters are provided for the young Americans."
He motioned the lads to follow him, which they did. Inside a German officer barred their progress, but the German soon set the man's doubts at rest, and the latter stepped aside.
"Captain," said the German envoy, "these gentlemen have brought us back from the allied lines, and will conduct us there again to-morrow should it be necessary for us to go. You will kindly see that they have all necessary accommodations for the night."
"Yes, sir," said the captain.
"Then I shall leave them to you. I will return for them to-morrow some time."
"Very well, sir."
The German bade the lads good night and took his departure. The German captain addressed them.
"Kindly follow me, sirs," he said.
The lads did so. Along a long hall they were led. Then they turned into a large room at the far end of the hall. Inside were a dozen or more German officers. The captain led the way toward a door across the room. All eyes were turned on the lads as they stepped across the room.
Suddenly there came an exclamation from a man who sat near, as Hal and Chester passed. A chair scraped the floor and a man sprang up and confronted them. Hal and Chester looked into the eyes of General Knoff, the German general whose daughter Chester had befriended in Sedan some weeks before.
"So," said the general confronting the lads with a gleam of anger in his eyes, but his gaze resting particularly upon Hal, "so you made fools of me in Sedan, eh?"
Hal smiled. He was perfectly safe now and he knew it. Not a man there nor in the German lines any place for that matter would dare harm the officer who had piloted the German envoys back from their tryst with Marshal Foch.
"It had to be done, General," said Hal, still smiling.
"But," protested the general, "why was it necessary for you to pick me for your tool?"
"We wouldn't have done that, General," said Hal, "had you not been so insistent upon our having breakfast with you."
"Well," said General Knoff, "it would appear that the fates are just, after all. I have no doubt that it was information you gained from me that spoiled our plans."
"I have no doubt of it either, sir," Hal smiled.
"And such being the case," the general continued, "I shall see to it that you are tried as spies."
"But we are in American uniform now, sir," said Hal.
"You weren't then," was the reply, "as I stand willing to prove. No; I shall have you shot. No man can make a fool of me and live."
"You can't do that, sir," said Hal, quietly.
"I can't, eh?" exclaimed the general. "I would like to know what is to prevent me?"
Hal's smile seemed to infuriate the general.
"Captain," he said, "you will place these men under arrest."
The German captain saluted respectfully, but he shook his head.
"It is impossible, sir," he said.
"What's that?" demanded General Knoff angrily. "Do you dare dispute my orders?"
"Only when I have previously received commands from your superiors, sir," was the reply.
"What do you mean?"
"These young Americans," the captain explained, "have safe conduct in our lines. I only know they have piloted our delegates who have been discussing an armistice with the French commander-in-chief. I cannot arrest them, sir."
"I see," said General Knoff. "You are perfectly right, captain."
He stepped close to Chester and extended a hand.
"As a military measure," he said, "I would have you shot for what I know, but I want to thank you again for a service you rendered me in Sedan."
Chester was taken absolutely by surprise. Nevertheless he grasped the general's hand, for that was what seemed to be expected of him.
"I am glad I was on hand at such an opportune moment, sir," the lad replied.
"So am I," said the general. "You know my name, of course. When the war is over, should you chance to be in Berlin, it would give me pleasure to entertain you at my home in Berlin."
"Thank you, sir," said Chester. "Should I chance to be in Berlin at any time, I shall avail myself of your offer, sir."
The general bowed slightly, insisted on shaking hands with Hal also, and then said:
"Well, gentlemen, you are probably tired from your trip, so I will not detain you longer. Captain, I leave the young Americans to you."
The lads followed the German captain from the room.
Their quarters for the night were commodious, though not richly furnished. However, as Hal said: "I have slept in whole lot more unpleasant places and thought I was doing well."
"It's plenty good for me," Chester agreed. "By the way, Hal, has it occurred to you that we may return to Hirson to-morrow alone?"
"What do you mean?"
"Why, that the German high command may refuse to accept Marshal Foch's terms, and refuse to negotiate farther."
"Hardly likely," said Hal. "My view is that the Germans are so anxious for peace that they will accept almost any terms."
"I hope I'm wrong, of course," said Chester. "but I am simply judging by what one of the envoys said about 'if' they returned to-morrow."
"I heard him," said Hal, "but at the same time I don't take much stock in any such statement. In the first place, these envoys don't have any more to say about what terms they shall accept than I do."
"Oh, they don't, eh?"
"Of course not. It is the German high command, that will make that decision. The delegates will do whatever they are instructed to do. They are merely the representatives of the powers that be."
"Nevertheless," said Chester, "if they sign terms, the terms will be binding."
"Of course; unless it should be that the Germans consider the agreement simply another 'scrap of paper,' as they did the Belgian treaty."
"I think the Germans have learned a thing or two," said Chester. "I don't believe they'll ever try such tactics again. They have at least learned that the majority of nations are honorable, and that they are in honor bound to respect treaties."
"Let us hope so," said Hal. "Now we've talked enough. I vote we turn in. We may have a hard day to-morrow."
"All right. It suits me. And here is one night we will sleep within the German lines in comfort, for we will not have to be on the watch for enemies and fear possible discovery."
"Right," agreed Hal, "and at the same time we are here in the line of duty. Well, me for the hay."
"Not a very elegant expression, perhaps," said Chester with a grin, "but very much to the point. Me for the hay, too."
Ten minutes later both lads were fast asleep.
CHAPTER XXIII
THE KAISER ABDICATES
It was another historic conference that Hal and Chester attended the following morning. It is true they were not invited guests; neither, perhaps, were they supposed to overhear the nature of historical facts as they were written that day. It was, most likely, an oversight that permitted them to be near when the German emperor signed a formal decree of abdication.
It still lacked a few minutes of 7 o'clock on the morning of November 10 when Hal and Chester turned out, greatly refreshed by a good night's sleep. They strolled from the house where they had spent the night, and for perhaps an hour took in the sights about the German city. Then they returned to their temporary quarters, for, as Hal said, "there is no telling when we shall be wanted and it is just as well to be there."
It was half an hour later when a German officer appeared and instructed them to follow him. This the lads did without hesitancy. Their guide led them to a distant part of the village, where an extraordinary array of tents told the lads that they were near important personages in the German ranks. The guide showed them into a tent somewhat smaller than the rest, where he left them.
After they had been alone perhaps twenty minutes, Hal explored.
"Well," he said, "if these fellows don't hurry they won't get back to Marshal Foch's rendezvous until too late."
"Oh, I guess they'll get there in time all right," replied Chester. "At least they will if they know what's good for them."
Meanwhile Hal, peering through the canvass door at one end of the tent, ascertained that the door of the second tent in some unaccountable manner had been left open. Also, the lad perceived that the tent was filled with uniformed figures.
"Something going on," he said to Chester in a low voice.
Chester stepped forward and peered over Hal's shoulder.
"There certainly is," he agreed. "Wonder if we will be able to hear what they say?"
"I guess we can," said Hal. "I don't like to eavesdrop, but we might learn something that will help."
"I guess the end will justify the means," said Chester.
They became silent.
It was clear to both lads that the figures in the tent were awaiting the arrival of another person. And presently the latter came; and when he entered, the tent both lads stifled exclamations of surprise with difficulty.
"Well, what do you think of that!" Chester ejaculated.
"By Jove! I didn't know he was in this part of the field," said Hal.
For the man who had just entered the tent was none other than the German Emperor, Wilhelm II.
Gazing more closely, the lads made out other familiar figures. There was, first, General Ludendorff, chief of the German staff; General Von Hindenburg, and newly created Chancellor Ebert. Also the tent was crowded with other notables, both military and civilian.
It was the kaiser who spoke first. Straining their ears, the lads were able to catch every word that was uttered.
"Well, gentlemen," said the kaiser, "I am here at your request. What is it you desire of me?"
It was General Ludendorff who replied.
"Your majesty, it is my painful duty to acquaint you with the terms laid down by the enemy commander-in-chief."
"What are they?" demanded the kaiser briefly.
In as few words as possible, General Von Ludendorff outlined the terms of an armistice as Marshal Foch had presented them to the German envoys.
The kaiser fidgeted impatiently until his chief general had concluded. Then he burst out:
"We shall accept no such terms."
General Ludendorff bowed.
"As I supposed you would answer, your majesty. Nevertheless, it again becomes my duty to acquaint you with other unpleasant facts."
The German emperor appeared surprised.
"Explain, sir," he said briefly.
Again General Ludendorff bowed.
"Well, your majesty," he said, "it must be plain to you that the war is lost to German arms."
"Not at all," said the kaiser. "I still have millions of men in the field, and there are others who yet may take up arms."
"Very true," said General Ludendorff, "they may be able to take up arms if they will. The trouble is, your majesty, that they probably will decline longer to wage a losing fight."
The German emperor started back.
"What!" he exclaimed in a loud voice. "The German soldier refuse to obey my commands?"
"Exactly, your majesty," said General Ludendorff.
"Any such men shall be instantly shot," declared the kaiser.
"That would be all very well, Sire," said General Ludendorff, "if there remained any to carry out the sentence of execution."
The kaiser began to catch a glimmer of the true situation.
"You mean," he asked in a low voice, "that my men will refuse to fight longer?"
Again General Ludendorff bowed.
"Precisely, your majesty," he said quietly.
The kaiser dropped abruptly into a chair.
"I should have been warned," he muttered. "I should have been warned. For years I have seen this coming, and yet I would not take heed."
He rose to his feet again.
"Tell me," he said to General Von Ludendorff, "what are your sentiments in this matter, General?"
"The same as the sentiments of the soldiers, your majesty."
"You mean that I must accept the enemy's terms?"
"Yes, your majesty."
"Well, I won't do it."
"There is yet an alternative," said General Ludendorff slowly.
"And that?" demanded the kaiser, his voice hopeful.
"Abdication," said General Ludendorff quietly.
"What!"
The kaiser stepped quickly forward and raised his right hand. General Ludendorff stepped quickly back several paces.
"I should strike you down where you stand," said the kaiser, lowering his arm and letting his hand play with the hilt of the sword that he wore at his side. "Give up my throne, and throw my people upon the mercy of the enemy?"
"The people would be very glad to be thrown upon such mercy," said General Von Hindenburg, now stepping forward. "Your majesty, let me add my voice to that of General Ludendorff. I have fought for you as best I know how, but it has been a losing fight, as we have known, almost from the first. Something must be done, and that at once."
"Then you, too, general, urge that I renounce the throne?"
"I do, Sire, most emphatically."
The kaiser's face grew grave. Apparently such a thing as abdication had never entered his head.
"Well, gentlemen," he said at last, "I shall give my decision when my son, the Crown Prince, arrives, which should be in a very few moments."
The officers in the tent bowed low. Wilhelm II was still emperor, and would be until he had signed a formal decree of abdication. As officers of the emperor it was the duty of every man present to serve him.
As the kaiser had predicted, the Crown Prince, known more familiarly in allied circles as the "clown prince," because of his peculiar appearance, entered the tent.
He slapped his father familiarly on the shoulder.
"What's the matter?" he demanded. "Have the allies taken Berlin?"
The kaiser smiled feebly.
"Even worse, if possible, son," he said. "These gentlemen here," and he swept the interior of the tent with his arm, "ask that I renounce the throne of Germany so that my people may have peace."
The Crown Prince stepped back as though he had received a blow in the face. He recovered himself quickly, however, and said quietly.
"Please repeat that again, Sire."
The kaiser did so, and for a space of perhaps five minutes there was silence in the tent. Then the Crown Prince said:
"Well, Sire, what are you going to do?"
"Abdicate," said the kaiser briefly. "I shall abdicate in your favor. You may treat with the enemy."
"Hold on," ejaculated the Crown Prince. "You don't need to abdicate in my favor, sir. I don't want to be emperor, not under present conditions."
"Are you afraid?" demanded the kaiser sternly.
The Crown Prince was not to be bluffed like that.
"Maybe I am, and maybe I'm not," he said doggedly; "but I'm not going to be left in any such plight as this. You may wager on that, sir. If you abdicate in my favor, I shall follow suit, your majesty."
"As you will," said the kaiser. "I, at least, shall abdicate, and that at once. General Ludendorff; how soon can you have the necessary papers prepared?"
"I have already had them prepared, your majesty," was General Ludendorff's response. "I had hoped that you might see the light."
"Play the coward, you mean, eh?" said the kaiser. "But no matter. Put the paper before me and I shall sign."
From his pocket the general produced a long parchment, which he laid on the table. As his officers gathered about him, the German emperor read the paper carefully.
"You don't seem to have had much doubt about how I would act," he commented dryly. "Well, perhaps it is for the best."
He seized a pen and scrawled his name across the paper. He stepped back and looked at General Ludendorff.
"Perhaps," he said, "you have Had a similar paper drawn for the Crown Prince to sign?"
"I have," said General Ludendorff briefly. "I have overlooked nothing, Sire."
"So it would seem," said the Crown Prince angrily, "but I shall sign just the same."
He attached his signature to a second paper produced by General Ludendorff.
And thus ended the rule of the family of Hohenzollern.