Jump to content

Page:Armistice Day.djvu/11

From Wikisource
This page has been validated.

ARMISTICE DAY

INTRODUCTION

A young orderly burst into the Mars hospital ward and a tingling hush of premonition leaped from bed to bed down the long double row of wounded officers.

"The Colonel has received the following dispatch: 'At 11 A.M., to-day, firing will cease on all fronts. This is official!'"

Even after the door had slammed, the incredible hush continued. In common with all the dwellers on earth we were living through the most significant, the most poignant, the most stupendous moment of our lives.


Between these covers has been brought together the best poetry and prose which could be found, dealing with this day of exultant glory, its history, spirit and significance,—and with those allied subjects, the War and the victory which preceded the Armistice, the heroes who gave their all to win it, and the resultant peace with its cloud of attendant problems.

It is hoped that this volume may serve to clarify, emphasize and perpetuate that truer, larger spirit of the day which has been succinctly expressed in these two letters:


ix