midnight
The Allies were now in force enough to hold the town , which they did all that day with Hal and Chester in command . With the coming of night , however , an officer appeared to relieve them . He also informed them that General Joffre desired their presence immediately . Accordingly the lads left the little village , and midnight found them back in their own quarters . They retired immediately to rest , for General Joffre had left word that he would postpone his interview with them until the morrow . Bright and early the next morning , however , the lads were admitted to his presence . `` This , '' said the French commander , placing a paper in Hal 's hands , `` is an important communication for the French prime minister .