"Yes; a cross in imitation of the iron cross, so far as its shape is concerned," he answered; "that is, a black cross on a white field."
The company marched back to the line. During the next half hour there was nothing but expectancy, waiting, waiting,—that most trying thing for soldiers, who know that a battle is impending. Then a hundred feet to their rear there was a terrific explosion, which startled every one. This was followed by others, but none reached the trench line.
Thus, during the whole day, there was an exchange of artillery, the greatest damage being done to those in the rear who were trying to get to the front.
"With the long range guns the great danger isn't always with the fellows in front," said the corporal.
Black Cross on German Flyers
At four that afternoon the company was startled by an order to leave the trenches and fall to the rear. Every one cast questioning glances, but the knapsacks and rolls were quickly seized, and within ten minutes they were in line with the regiments to the right and the left. There was no hurrying or disorder.
"I wonder why we are going back?" asked Ralph.
"I suppose it's our business to retreat," returned the corporal.
They marched fully a mile to the rear, passing on the way at least half a dozen lines of trenches, which had been thrown up since the boys covered the ground the night before. Every trench line was filled with soldiers, those in the front being the first to retire. On the way they saw how the great shells had played havoc with many of the works.