Were they going to make us take outpost duty? There was no further doubt about it when our platoon went on alone, leaving the rest of the 22nd as supports in a farm. The lieutenant had his instructions; he sent out scouts and made us advance trailing arms.
In about ten minutes when we had just entered the woods, he said:
"Here we are!"
An important crossroads. The site was well chosen.
A NIGHT ON OUTPOST DUTY
I pass over the arrangements of our pickets. Each one of us knew his duties, and acquitted himself conscientiously in his part. Henriot made a thorough reconnaissance. When he came back he showed me a plan which he had picked up.
"By way of practice, do you see? Our maps only go as far as the Rhine!"