As Stubbs' guide pointed out the various points destroyed by German
shells, he gave the little man an account of the fighting in each spot.
He pointed out the advantages of earthen breastworks as against the solid
walls of fortresses. The effectiveness of the former was very plain.
Stubbs and his guide now returned to the citadel of Verdun, where
Stubbs thanked General Petain for being allowed to make the tour of
inspection. Gathered about the commander were many members of his
staff, who joined in the conversation. Stubbs could not but be
impressed by the confidence manifested by the officers that Verdun
could be kept from the Germans, and this in the face of the reverses of
the past few days. The feeling was summarized in the closing word of
General Petain, as he bade Stubbs farewell.
"_Au revoir_, Monsieur Stubbs," he said, "until you come back when our
victory is complete!"
By a series of fierce counter assaults, the French now had driven the
seasoned veterans of the German Crown Prince from Dead Man's Hill; from
Hill No. 265, to the north, from Chattancourt and Charny. Back across the
Meuse the Germans fled from the vicious attacks of the French.
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