THE MADONNA AND TWO SAINTS BY PERUGINO-CREMONA
At the right, the painting covered with timber and sand-bags
It was, of course, more difficult in the war zone. Once inside the restricted area one became a suspect, and it sometimes took weeks to obtain police and military permission to leave Italy. The Italians were in earnest, they had had a severe lesson, and they did not intend to be caught napping.
An Allied victory was the one object, and Italy was ready to pay her share of the price. No braver men ever faced an enemy than the Arditi, and no enemy army ever forgot an encounter with these "shock troops" of the Italian army. These men were born and brought up in an atmosphere that has taught them how to fight. They are as hard as nails, as fearless as lions—the pick of Italy's best troops.
Photograph by E. M. Newman
MARKET WOMEN OF ITALY
Italy, though needing food, is not starving, nor is she depressed. She has recovered from the shock of 1917, and there is no disaffection among her people. All are united. Socialists cannot overturn the conditions of the nation. As for their military stamina—Austrians can testify to the fact that the Italian army is a foe worthy to engage itself at any time, against any hostile power.