clock in the evening of June 3, 1916, the Germans attempted
to surprise the fortress at the southeast by escalading the ravine
which cuts the bank of the Meuse near Damloup. This was foiled by the
French, who drove them back in a sharp counterattack. The Germans did
not make the attempt again at this time, but continued to bombard the
fort with heavy guns.

On June 4, 1916, at 3 in the afternoon, several German battalions
advancing from Vaux Pool attempted to climb the slopes to the wood of
Fumin, but were swept back by French machine-gun fire. In the evening
and during the night the Germans repeatedly attacked without gaining
any advantage. The wood of Fumin remained in French possession.

[Illustration: Verdun to St. Mihiel.]

There were no attacks on the following day, owing to weather
conditions and the general exhaustion of the German troops. But
the Sixth German Artillery resumed its firing on the fortress,
throwing such an avalanche of shells that every approach to the place
became impassable. Inside the works a mere handful of French under
Major Raynal firmly held its ground.

[Illustration: The thoroughly organized French Aviation camp near
Verdun, as seen by an aviator flying at a height of 500 meters (about
1640 feet). As the war continues, the daring and skill of aviators win
more and more admiration.]

In the evening of June 6, 1916, the garrison of the fortress of Vaux
repulsed a savage German attack; but during the night, owing to the
tremendous bombardment which cut off all communication with the
fortress, the position of the French became serious indeed. The brave
garrison was now entirely surrounded. Finally by means of signals they
were able to make their condition known to French troops at some
distance away. Unless they could get speedy assistance there was no
hope of their holding the fort. The struggle continued more
desperately than ever as the Germans realized how precarious was the
French hold on the place.

On June 6, 1916, the French gunner Vannier, taking with him some
comrades, most of whom were wounded, succeeded in escaping through an
air hole and tried to reach the French lines.

The heroic garrison had now reached the limit of human endurance.
Without food or water, it was hopeless for them to continue their
defense of the place. When the last hope was gone, Major Raynal
addressed this message to his men:

"We have stayed the limit. Officers and men have done their duty. Long