We are not
children looking for light and vain encouragement, but men engaged upon
a task which has got to be put through. Still, when every allowance has
been made for the uncertainty with which these great operations are
always enshrouded, I think it only fair and right to say that the
situation tonight is better, far better, than a cold calculation of the
forces available on both sides before the war should have led us to
expect at this early stage. [Cheers.]
It is quite clear that what is happening now is not what the Germans
planned, [laughter,] and they have yet to show that they can adapt
themselves to the force of circumstances created by the military power
of their enemies with the same efficiency that they have undoubtedly
shown in regard to plans long prepared, methodically worked out, and
executed with the precision of deliberation.
The battle, I say, gives us every reason to meet together tonight in
good heart. But let me tell you frankly that if this battle had been as
disastrous as, thank God, it appears to be triumphant, I should come
before you with unabated confidence and with the certainty that we have
only to continue in our efforts to bring this war to the conclusion
which we wish and intend.
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