For the smallest fraction of a second there was an awesome silence, and
then the British swept forward with a rush. Neither the bullets from the
thousands of rifles nor the steady fire from the great guns of the German
field batteries checked them.

The infantry covered the open space at a quick trot, and in almost less
time than it takes to tell, it was at hand grips with the enemy, who
stood braced to receive the shock of the charge.

The impact was terrific. The Germans stood gallantly to their work,
encouraged by the shouts of their officers, but they were no match for
the British troops in hand-to-hand fighting.

As the British closed upon them, the Germans poured in one fierce volley;
but they had no time for more. Down went Teutons and English in
struggling heaps, but the British poured over them and continued their
deadly work.

All along the line the Germans gave ground slowly, their enemies pursuing
them relentlessly and cutting them down as they retreated. The engagement
became a slaughter.

Now Hal and Chester found themselves in the midst of the battle, in the
fiercest of the fighting. Sent forward with orders, they found themselves
in the center of the sudden charge. Neither was minded to turn back, but
they managed to single each other out and soon were fighting side by
side. Blood streamed from a wound in Hal's cheek, where a German bayonet
had pricked him slightly. Chester was unwounded.

Suddenly Hal found himself engaged with a German officer. With a swift