All these war-like preparations the three chums noted with every manifestation of delight. They wanted to whip the Hun, and whip him well, and all this argued for success. The soldiers knew they would be well backed-up as they went forward, and forward they were going.
Orders were given that every man must look well to himself personally—to his uniform, his belongings, and his weapons. All gas masks were tested, and those in use for some time, or which showed the least defect, were thrown away and new ones issued. There must be no holding up of the advance once it had begun, because of poison gas. And it could not be doubted but what the Germans would use it lavishly.
Rifles and hand grenades, likewise, were looked to. Everything must be in readiness so there 199 would not be an instant of unnecessary delay. But it was the store of cannon and ammunition back of the firing lines that was most amazing.
The three chums, being sent on duty to the rear one day, had a chance to observe some of the measures being taken there to insure the defeat of the Kaiser’s troops. The ground was fairly covered with ammunition boxes and shells—well concealed from hostile airmen, of course, even had they been able to pass that far to the rear. And the guns, large and small, lined up ready for the forward movement, were wheel to wheel for miles and miles in extent. The greatest artillery firing in the history of the world was about to take place.
“If the professor wants to see the effect of a rattle-te-bang on his bugs he’ll soon get his chance,” said Jerry, and his chums could only agree with him.
“I only wish one thing,” remarked Bob, as they prepared to go back to the front, after having accomplished their mission.
“What?” asked Ned.
“I’d like to have it out with Noddy Nixon before the big show. I just want to get one whack at him for taking our wood and those doughnuts and cakes of chocolate. Just one whack!”
But this “whack” Bob was destined never to have. 200
They again went on duty in the trenches. The day of the great offensive was approaching.