But first I must take steps to thwart the proposed German drive. It
is to be delivered when, you say?"
"Two days after to-morrow, sir," replied Hal.
"And you say the Kaiser will return to the front the day after
to-morrow?"
"Yes, sir."
"Good! We shall be ready for him."
He turned to a member of his staff. "Colonel Mercer," he said, "my
compliments to General Rochelle, and repeat to him what you have just
heard. You will order him to fall back slowly when the German
offensive begins."
He turned to the others of his staff, who had manifested some surprise at
this command. "I do this, gentlemen," he explained, "that the Germans may
be drawn into a trap of our own setting. Not knowing that we have learned
their plans, they will probably push the attack with vigor. When we begin
to give way they will be confident of the success of their plan. In the
meantime reenforcements shall be hurried forward, and, when the Germans
have advanced to a point I shall select, we shall take the offensive with
redoubled vigor.
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