Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1918 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XXVI A VISIT TO PARIS INCE reaching France it had been my desire to visit and see something of Paris and its life. Late in the summer of 1917, I applied for leave from my regiment that I might make the trip. Nearly every British soldier was anxious to get back to Blighty at the first opportunity and accordingly my application for the purpose of visiting Paris was received with something of surprise. "So you intend to take your leave in Paris, sargeant?" "Yes, sir," I replied, "I have no relatives in England, so I would like to visit Paris." One bright morning in September, I was advised that my request had been granted for a leave in Paris. My arrangements were soon made, and on September 28th I boarded a fussy little train at Saint Pol. As the train left the station I had the carriage to myself and congratulated myself on the fact that I was to enjoy the trip in quiet and free from the naturally inquisitive traveler. The train had not gone beyond perhaps two, or three stations, when my door was opened by a guard, and a little French woman with two children entered. Mentally I cursed the luck, but thought I might yet be left alone to interest myself in the paper I was reading and in the passing scenery. I misjudged the temperament of my co-traveler, however, for I was not permitted to dwell long on either paper or scenery. She had no sooner placed her baggage and settled herself and children, than she directed her attention to me, and opened her conversation with the salutation, "Good day soldier." I nodded in reply. "Where are you going and where are you from?" she inquired. I tried to answer her questions in French to the best of my ability. Then she wanted to know if I were an Englishman or a Canadian. I shook my head. She...