Indeed there was a certain elemental boy-like bearing of pride in him as he told us the story.

If I am right in my dates the defenses of Maubeuge caved in under the batterings of the German Jack Johnsons on September sixth and the citadel surrendered September seventh.

On the following day, the eighth, Von Zwehl got word that a sudden forward thrust of the Allies threatened the German center at Laon.

Without waiting for orders he started to the relief.

He had available only nine thousand troops, all reserves.