Haig was startled awake by the sound of artillery. He turned over, got out of bed, and quickly ran to the observation window, picking up his binoculars.
The Southern Shore French Army positions were lit up with flashes of fire, as if engulfed in a sea of flames, while the British Army positions were hardly touched.
It was clear that the Germans were concentrating their artillery fire on the Southern Shore of the River Somme, attacking the French defensive lines.
A satisfied smile appeared on Haig's face. The situation was developing just as he had hoped; soon he would hear cries for help from Shire and the council.
After a moment of consideration, Haig ordered his staff, "Inform the French Ministry of War that the German Army has suddenly launched an attack, concentrated on the Southern Shore French defensive lines at the River Somme!"
"Yes, General!"
Haig smiled subtly, eager to deliver this "good news" to Paris.
...
