One of the Germans advanced.
"We have come," he said quietly, "to learn on what terms we may accept the armistice you have offered."
"Armistice?" repeated Marshal Foch, "I have made no offer of an armistice."
The German officer bit his lip.
"But I understood—" he began.
"Enough of this subterfuge," said Marshal Foch sternly. "It is my understanding that you come hither to request an armistice preliminary to negotiations for peace. If I am mistaken, we are losing valuable time."
Marshal Foch saw plainly through the Germans' plan. It was to make it appear that the armistice had been offered by the allies, and not sought by the German high command. The French commander-in-chief realized, too, what effect this would have on the German people. It would bolster their flagging courage and might possibly result in many more months of war.
"But—" began the German again.
"It is idle to argue," said Marshal Foch. "As I say, I understood that the German high command seeks an end of this war. If so, I shall be glad to state my terms. If not, I shall order an advance along the whole front within two hours."
The German delegate to whom had been assigned the role of spokesman bowed.