Shire could only half-heartedly tell the neighbors who came to plead with him that he would do his best.
Even so, the neighbors were endlessly grateful to Shire, as if once Shire promised, he would surely defeat the Germans and bring their sons back from the frontlines.
Only Shire knew that the battlefield was full of uncertainties, and no one could guarantee victory, even with thorough preparations.
...
The military situation was urgent; Shire returned to the City Defense Headquarters after staying at home for only half an hour.
After a brief preparation, the 105th Infantry Regiment boarded a train heading to the Ypres front. At this time, it was only two hours since the German Army launched the gas attack.
Since the police training base was located in the 12th district of Paris, it was still within the city, though far from the city center. Therefore, the departure of the 105th Infantry Regiment was no secret; people immediately knew the regiment was heading to the front.
