It had been impossible in their retreat to bury their dead. Heaps of bodies still lay where they fell. Every ditch was filled with slain Austrians, the roadways were lined with them. It was a gruesome sight, but it told the story of a changed Italy, of a new army that meant to retrieve the honor of the country, and bring to the Italian arms the glory to which they were entitled.
Italy needed coal, she wanted steel for ammunition, and these deficiencies threatened her effort. Her allies came to her assistance, and equipped and replenished her for the prosecution of the war to a successful conclusion.
Photograph by E. M. Newman
A HUMBLE FOUR-FOOTED CITIZEN OF ROME
His voice was never for war
In relief work the Italians are particularly efficient. The central organization of the Italian Red Cross has naturally assumed the responsibility and direction of all relief work, both for soldiers and civilians. Numerous other organizations have sprung into existence; chief among them is "Le Samaritane," which is under the presidency of Her Majesty, Queen Helena of Italy. In this organization are thousands of women who are members of the best Italian society, and they have rendered effective and generous assistance in many ways, relieving distress wherever they find it.
A hospital for wounded soldiers has been established at the Royal Palace of the Quirinal, which is under the direct supervision of the Queen. The Duchess of Aosta, wife of the King's cousin, is General Inspector of the Red Cross nurses, and both of these noble ladies give actual, effective, and intelligent service to the various relief organizations to which their names are attached.
Photograph by E. M. Newman