But the British, excellent marksmen that they were, in spite of their losses were having the better of the encounter. Wherever a German arm or leg was exposed, there a British bullet struck. Consequently the firing soon became desultory and then ceased altogether.
Taking advantage of this lull, Chester made a dash, and succeeded in reaching a tree behind which Hal and Captain Anderson had taken shelter.
"What are we going to do?" he demanded. "Surely we can't stay here much longer."
"Well, what shall we do?" demanded Hal. "At the first break the Germans will shoot us down."
"We must do something," replied Chester. "Wait a moment"—as Hal turned away—"I have an idea."
"What is it?" demanded Hal.
"Yes, let's have it," said Captain Anderson.
"Well, why can't a few of us—say ten men—crawl toward the rear, and, when out of sight, make a detour and catch the Germans from the rear? Those who are left here will fire only at intervals, so that when we open from the rear the enemy will believe that the major part of our men are there. Naturally they will present their strongest front there. Then you can take them by surprise from this side."
"By Jove!" ejaculated Captain Anderson. "That's not a half-bad idea."
"It's a good idea," said Hal. "It shall be acted upon at once. Now, who shall go and who shall stay here?"