“One hour before the time set for the advance, we passed the final
inspection and deposited our last letters with the regimental
postmaster. Those letters meant a good deal to all of us, and they were
in our minds during the long wait that followed. One man suddenly began
to intone the _Marseillaise_. Soon every man joined in singing. It was
a very Anthem of Victory. We were ready, eager, and confident: for us
to-morrow held but one chance—Victory.
[Illustration:
_Courtesy of Scribners._