Page:War's dark frame (IA warsdarkframe00camp).pdf/168

138 thrce aeroplanes, with the appearance of gigantic, butterflies, drifted lazily about in the sunlight.

"That means business," the division officer said.

You experienced a shutting off of all the wider future. You were merely grateful get off that naked road and among the trees of the village. When the engines were stopped again at brigade headquarters the roar of the guns was perpetual and close, and torn now and then by heavier explosions. Clearly there was something ahead more exciting than Champagne or Lorraine had offered.

A brigade officer, a charming fellow with red hair and freckles, came out, shook hands, and announced that he was to be our guide for the trenches. He shared the general seriousness.

"I see you have your gas masks," he said to me, "but you'll want helmets."

He waited as if for a reply. It was necessary to say something.

“Yes, thanks. It would add a little to the romance."

No matter what impression you make on other people at the front you have no illusions about yourself.

At a word from him an orderly brought a cluster of round, flat steel hats.