The papers of Monday published a long despatch from Sir
John French. It is dated November 20th, and covers the British operations in the region of Ypres and Arruentieree
since the beginning of October. Early in October Sir John French was impressed by the necessity of outflanking, if possible, the enemy to the north. This view was laid before General Joffre, who assented. The consequent movement of our troops was begun on October 3rd and ended on October 19th. In the new position a vital question soon arose—whether it was better to strengthen the line in order to secure the ground of hardly pressed troops, or to extend the line in order to prevent a wide turning movement by the Germans. The latter course was adopted. The risks were admitted, but Sir John French knew what be could expect of his men. He says :—
" I fully realized the difficult task which lay before us, and the onerous role which the British Army was called upon to fulfil. That success has been attained, and all the enemy's desperate attempts to break through our line frustrated, is due entirely to the marvellous fighting power and the indomitable courage and tenacity of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men. No more arduous task has ever been assigned to British soldiers ; and in all their splendid history there is no instance of their having answered so magnificently to the desperate calls which of necessity were made upon them."
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