The air was vibrant with
action; the fate of battle showed on the face of the humblest orderly.
But today 'G. H. Q.'--as headquarters are familiarly known--are totally
different. Although army units have risen from thousands to millions
of men, and fields of operations stretch from sea to sea, and more
ammunition is expended in a single engagement than was employed in
entire wars of other days, absolute serenity prevails. It is only when
your imagination conjures up the picture of flame and fury that lies
beyond the horizon line that you get a thrill.
"An occasional motorcar driven by a soldier-chauffeur chugs up the
gravel road to the chateau and from it emerge earnest-faced officers
whose visits are usually brief. Neither time nor words are wasted when
myriad lives hang in the balance and an empire is at stake. Inside and
out there is an atmosphere of quiet confidence, born of unobtrusive
efficiency."
The same writer on meeting Haig says: "I found myself in a presence
that, even without the slightest clue to its profession, would have
unconsciously impressed itself as military. Dignity, distinction, and
a gracious reserve mingle in his bearing. I have rarely seen a
masculine face so handsome and yet so strong. His hair and mustache
are fair, and his clear, almost steely-blue eyes search you, but not
unkindly.
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