And now, he regretted to state that he was very busy; if they had other business with the department, Captain Meroux would act as its representative.
Before accepting this dismissal Uncle John ventured to ask about a chauffeur.

Rather brusquely the general stated that they could ill afford to spare one from the service.

A desperate situation now faced the Allies in Flanders.

Captain Meroux must take care of the Americans; doubtless he could find a driver for their ambulance--perhaps a Belgian.
But in the outer office the orderly smiled doubtfully.
A driver?
To be sure; but such as he could furnish would not be of the slightest use to them.

All the good chauffeurs had been impressed and the general was not disposed to let them have one.
"He mentioned a Belgian," suggested Uncle John.
"I know; but the Belgians in Calais are all fugitives, terror-stricken and unmanned." He grew thoughtful a moment and then continued: "My advice would be to take your ship to Dunkirk.