Chester did
so, though not without some difficulty, for he had trouble adjusting
it. But with his nostrils protected at last, Chester turned to watch
the approach of the enemy.
The Germans came forward in a dense mass, despite the fearful execution
worked in their ranks by the French guns. In the lines of the defenders
dropped huge bombs that sent up dense vapors--the deadly gasses of the
foe--but they caused little harm, for the French were protected. Now and
then a man fell, however; perhaps he had failed to adjust his helmet
properly, or perhaps it was not perfect. But for the most part the gas
bombs had little effect.
The first concerted attack of the German troops availed little; and after
trying for half an hour to gain a foothold in the French lines they
withdrew. But a second attack followed a few moments later. This also was
beaten off. A third attack, however, met with better success.
This time the Germans succeeded in gaining a hold in the French lines,
and this they retained in spite of repeated counter assaults by the
French. Bravely the men charged, but they could make no impression on the
positions so recently won by the foe. The troops of the German Crown
Prince stood firm.
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