What makes it seem probable that the Germans are launching
their groat attack, something comparable to the advance of the Old Guard at Waterloo, may bo shortly stated. In the first place, Verdun, as was proved during General von Kluck's march on Paris, is the pivot of the Western war. Franco and Germany, speaking generally, hold there the positions that they have held since August, 1914. When the rest of the French lino went back, it went back as a door goes back, on its hinges, and tho doorpost was Verdun. When the door was three-quarters shut again by the battles of the Marne and the Aisne, the status quo continued at Verdun. In other words, experience has shown the Germans that while the doorpost of Verdun holds the Allies cannot be beaten. Therefore, if the call has come from the Kaiser to win at all costs, the attack would naturally begin at the test point—at Verdun. Again, it would naturally begin at the point where the heir to the German throno is in command.
