A MODERN CHALONS

Contrary to off-hand opinion, the German movement in the West has taken on the aspect of a supreme effort toward victory. Prepared on lines hither-to unparalleled, and executed with an energy, power and sacrifice of human lives scarcely credible, the German offensive not only seriously threatens the British army, but offers the possibility of the defeat of our cause.

The opening of a large breach in the Anglo-French front might conceivably mean disaster. Having once pierced through, the outflanking and rolling up of their lines might result in the destruction of all opposition. France would be at the invaders' feet. Before long, Paris and all remaining French territory would be in the hands of German forces. The war would be over. The Allies, though still supreme on the sea, would be unable to attack the enemy at any point, and so, baffled, must acknowledge defeat. Temporary as this would be, for the world can never see a victorious Germany as long as men exist to bear the fight, nevertheless, years more of bitter struggle and destruction would surely follow before we could ever retrace our steps to even the point where we now are.

Such is the gravity of the situation. We have faith in the British and preclude the possibility of such a defeat. Yet the power of the German army, which we had believed on the wane, is exhibited once more. We need not deceive ourselves in believing that anything but a long struggle is before us. Barring the unexpected, we have a long road to victory. It is for us Americans, who, even after a year, are still upon the threshold of an appreciable participation, it is for us to redouble our efforts toward effectively aiding those heroic peoples who have so long borne the brunt of the battle, and who, even now, are sorely pressed for our assistance. America has for a year been in a dream, patting herself on the back for the purity of ideals which only a few of her men have yet actively supported. America must come down to the bed rock of reality.