"It is our misfortune, sir," he said, "to ask for an armistice, in order that negotiations may be begun to put an end to further bloodshed."
"That is different," said Marshal Foch. "In that case, I shall be glad to state my terms. Briefly, they are these: That Germany immediately surrender to the allies quantities of arms and ammunition, the amounts to be determined later; that a certain number of war vessels and other ships, including submarines, be turned over as evidence of good faith; that German troops, in a specified time, shall withdraw to the east banks of the Rhine. In a word, I demand such sacrifices as will preclude the possibility of Germany renewing the struggle."
The German delegates uttered exclamations of protest.
"But, sir," said the spokesman, "Germany cannot submit to those terms."
"Take them or leave them," said Marshal Foch, throwing wide his hands.
"Have I your permission to confer with my associates?" asked the spokesman.
Marshal Foch produced his watch and laid it on his desk.
"I will allow you fifteen minutes," he replied.
The Germans withdrew to the far end of the car, where they began an animated discussion. At last the spokesman again approached Marshal Foch and saluted.
"I am afraid," he began, "that it is not in our power to accept such conditions out of hand. It will be first necessary to obtain the consent of higher authorities than we chance to be."