The Wrack of the Storm by Maurice Maeterlinck
page 54 of 147 (36%)
page 54 of 147 (36%)
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being twice named in dispatches. The second time was on returning from
a murderous assault at Thann, in Upper Alsace, in which he had greatly distinguished himself. I quote the exact words: "Corporal Bon is mentioned in the orders of the battalion for his gallantry under fire and his indifference to danger. When the leader of his section was killed, Bon took command, rushed to the front and, shouting to his men to follow him, gave proofs of the greatest initiative and courage. He was the first in the enemy's trenches with his section." That day he was promoted to sergeant and complimented by the general in front of his battalion in the following terms: "This is the second time, my friend, that I am told what you have done; next time you shall be told what I have done." To-day men tell of his death, but also of the undying glory which death alone confers. "At Hartmannsviller," writes one of Bon's comrades, "according to his captain's story, our friend's company was held in reserve, waiting to support the attack delivered by a regiment of infantry. The order came to support and reinforce the attack. The company at once leapt from the trenches, with the captain and Bon at its head. There was a salvo of artillery; and the bursting of a great shell caught Raymond almost full in the body, smashing his right leg and his chest. The captain was hit in the right hand. |
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