And then began the tragic story of the "Lost Battalions."

CHAPTER XXIX

CAPTURED

Just how or why the two battalions became lost and surrounded in the
Argonne Forest probably no one will ever know. It was probably a case
of the commands rushing on irresistibly to get as far as possible into
the fore of the fight, and in going too far through over-zealousness.
Or there may have been misunderstandings, which would not be uncommon
in such a great battle.

However it was, two American battalions were cut off from their
supporting friends, and surrounded by the Germans who, after having
been driven out of the woods at a certain point, stormed back and
closed the gap through which the two battalions had gone. Thus they
were held at the mercy of the Huns.

But, as has been said, there was only one thought in the minds of
all--or rather, two. To fight their way back and establish
communication with their comrades if possible, or to stand off the
attacking Germans until help came.

And then began a terrible time that lasted from October 2d to October
8th--a week of terror, death and anguish. But the brave Americans bore
it all with fortitude. They had no thought of surrender even when
their food gave out and their ammunition was reduced to the last few
rounds.

Once it was certain that the two battalions were surrounded by the
Germans in the thick woods, a plan of defense was laid out. The
commanding officers held a consultation and outlined what they hoped
to do. Sending runners for help was one of these. But this plan did
not succeed. Most of the runners were either killed or captured. Some
may have gotten through, wounded, but for some time it was impossible
for the relieving army to locate their lost comrades. Efforts were
made to find them by means of aeroplanes flying over the woods, but
the growth of trees and bushes was so dense that no observations could
be made.

And, all this while, the Germans were firing steadily at the brave men
whom they had surrounded in a ring of steel. Mortars and machine guns
poured a storm of shot and bullets on them, but the Americans replied
in kind, killing and being killed. For terrible toll was taken by the
Huns, who had the advantage.

Ned, Bob, and Jerry did their duty as it came to them, as their
companions did. Once Jerry, volunteering as a runner from one position
to another, to take the place of a man killed, came to a lonely spot
in the forest and as he a