Marshal Foch saw plainly through the Germans’ plan. It was to make it appear that the armistice had been offered by the allies, and not sought by the German high command. The French commander-in-chief realized, too, what effect this would have on the German people. It would bolster their flagging courage and might possibly result in many more months of war. "But—" began the German again. "It is idle to argue," said Marshal Foch. "As I say, I understood that the German high command seeks an end of this war. If so, I shall be glad to state my terms. If not, I shall order an advance along the whole front within two hours." The German delegate to whom had been assigned the role of spokesman bowed. "It is our misfortune, sir," he said, "to ask for an armistice, in order that negotiations may be begun to put an end to further bloodshed." "That is different," said Marshal Foch. "In that case, I shall be glad to state my terms. Briefly, they are these: That Germany immediately surrender to the allies quantities of arms and ammunition, the amounts to be determined later; that a certain number of war vessels and other ships, including submarines, be turned over as evidence of good faith; that German troops, in a specified time, shall withdraw to the east banks of the Rhine. In a word, I demand such sacrifices as will preclude the possibility of Germany renewing the struggle." The German delegates uttered exclamations of protest. "But, sir," said the spokesman, "Germany cannot submit to those terms." "Take them or leave them," said Marshal Foch, throwing wide his hands. "Have I your permission to confer with my associates?" asked the spokesman. Marshal Foch produced his watch and laid it on his desk. "I will allow you fifteen minutes," he replied. The Germans withdrew to the far end of the car, where they began an animated discussion. At last the spokesman again approached Marshal Foch and saluted. "I am afraid," he began, "that it is not in our power to accept such conditions out of hand. It will be first necessary to obtain the consent of higher authorities than we chance to be." "Yes?" said Marshal Foch inquiringly. He had expected something like this. "In which case," went on the German, "we have to request a cessation of hostilities while we return to our lines for further instructions." Marshal Foch shook his head. "It is impossible," he said quietly. The German was surprised. Clearly he had expected nothing like this. "But, sir," he protested, "it is utterly impossible for us to accept these conditions. We have not the authority. We must secure it from the high command." "That is your misfortune," said Marshal Foch. "Then what are we to do?"