though sir walter besant called war correspondents “the scene painters of history,” it may be questioned whether any pen or brush, trained on the land, sea and air battles of the present war, can depict more than a corner of the great devastating drama.

this little book, embracing extracts from famous books, may help the reader to visualise some of the outstanding battles in which britain has played a not inconspicuous part; and if they inspire those still fighting, and those behind them in support, with a firmer confidence and a greater endurance—if, too, these records of undaunted heroism, often against odds, enlighten readers in other lands as to the character of british fighting men—their publication in this informal style will be justified.

full acknowledgment is here made to the authors and publishers who have kindly permitted quotation; and to the proprietors of two great illustrated weekly papers who have lent for reproduction original sketches appearing in their pages.

april, 1917.