Gop of our fathers, known of old, Lord of our far-flung battle-line, Beneath whose awful Hand we hold Dominion over palm and pine Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet, Lest we forget-lest we forget! Far-called, our navies melt away; Is one with Nineveh and Tyre! RUDYARD KIPLING THE KAISER: "YOU SEE YOU HAVE LOST EVERYTHING." THE KING OF THE BELGIANS: "NOT MY SOUL." (Reproduced by permission of the proprietors of Punch.) PREFACE Books and articles in astounding numbers have been published in the past four years to explain the World War and to inform the public as to its progress. Societies and agencies of the government have urged that every available means be employed to inform the American people of the reasons for the war and the issues at stake; and much has been done for adults. Little or no thought seems to have been given to youthful readers who are beginning to think for themselves, and whose first thinking should be properly guided, for they are at an age when tales of heroism and daring make a strong appeal. In many homes the children are the only readers, and in nearly all, their thinking and reading exercise a powerful influence. This volume of stories of the World War is prepared to meet this important need, and to set before the pupils the war's unparalleled deeds of heroism, with the aims and ideals which have inspired, them, and which have led American youth to look upon the sacrifice of life as none too high a price to pay for the liberation of mankind. |