At daybreak I brought my workers and patrols back to Ornes, all
satisfied with the work accomplished. On reaching the cantonment I said
to them:
"_Mes enfants_, you have done well to-night and I am very much pleased
with you----"
One of the _poilus_ I had known for a long time, replied:
"Can I ask you a favor, lieutenant?"
"Certainly."
"Since you are pleased with us, we all would like to have god-mothers!"
"It is understood--you will have them!"
That is how the squad from Ornes got a very serious contingent of
god-mothers to the great happiness of my _poilus_, who received that
winter woolen socks and warm slippers!