He wondered why they had
not roused up German skirmishers, but perhaps those vigilant gentlemen,
had grown weary at last.
They reached the first brook, and, as they were crossing it, the rifle
fire expected so long began to crackle in front. Then the French
trumpets shrilled, and the whole force marched rapidly, rifles and field
guns opening in full volume. But the French had the advantage of
surprise. Their infantry advanced at the double quick, a powerful force
of cavalry on their right flank galloped to the charge, and
Bougainville's Paris regiment and the Strangers swept over the field.
A heavy fire met them, but the general's automobile kept in front
puffing along the main road. General Vaugirard puffed with it, but now
and then he ceased his puffing to whistle. John knew that he was pleased
and that all was going well. The battle increased in volume, and their
whole front blazed with fire. The dark was thinning away in the east and
dawn was coming.
"The chateau! The chateau!" cried John as a dark shape rose on the
horizon. Even as he looked a shell burst over it and it leaped into
flames. He cried aloud in fear, not for himself, but for those who were
there. But General Vaugirard was calmly examining the field and the
house through powerful glasses.
"They're pouring from the building," he said, "and it's full time. Look
how the fire gains! What a pity that we should destroy the home of some
good Frenchman in order to drive out the enemy.
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