_Though Sir Walter Besant called War correspondents “the scene painters
of history,” it may be questioned whether any pen or brush, trained on
the land, sea and air battles of the present War, can depict more than
a corner of the great devastating drama._
_This little book, embracing extracts from famous books, may help the
reader to visualise some of the outstanding battles in which Britain
has played a not inconspicuous part; and if they inspire those still
fighting, and those behind them in support, with a firmer confidence
and a greater endurance--if, too, these records of undaunted heroism,
often against odds, enlighten readers in other lands as to the
character of British fighting men--their publication in this informal
style will be justified._
_Full acknowledgment is here made to the authors and publishers who
have kindly permitted quotation; and to the proprietors of two great
illustrated weekly papers who have lent for reproduction original
sketches appearing in their pages._
_April, 1917._
[Illustration: THE BRITISH VICTORY OFF THE FALKLANDS: FIRST STAGE OF
THE ACTION BETWEEN BRITISH BATTLE-CRUISERS AND THE GERMAN ARMOURED
CRUISERS.
_Reproduced by permission of “The Illustrated London News.”_]