The battle must also be regarded as a fixed point in military history, since it was the first time since the days of the great Napoleon that a Prussian army had been turned and driven. In three successive wars--against the Danes, the Austrians, and the French--they had lived always in the warm sunshine of success. Now, at last, came the first chill of disaster. Partly from their excellent military qualities, but even more on account of their elaborate and methodical preparations, joined with a want of scruple which allowed them to force a war at the moment when they could take their adversary at a disadvantage, they had established a legend of invincibility. This they left behind them with their cannon and their prisoners between the Marne and the Aisne. It had been feared that free men, trained in liberal and humane methods, could never equal in military efficiency those who had passed through the savage discipline which is the heritage of the methods that first made Prussia great at the expense {161} of her neighbours. This shadow was henceforth for ever lifted from men's minds, and it was shown that the kindly comradeship which exists in the Western armies between officers and men was not incompatible with the finest fighting qualities of which any soldiers are capable. {162} CHAPTER VI THE BATTLE OF THE AISNE The hazardous crossing of the Aisne--Wonderful work of the sappers--The fight for the sugar factory--General advance of the Army--The 4th (Guards) Brigade's difficult task--Cavalry as a mobile reserve--The Sixth Division--Hardships of the Army--German breach of faith--_Tâtez toujours_--The general position--Attack upon the West Yorks--Counter-attack by Congreve's 18th Brigade--Rheims Cathedral--Spies--The siege and fall of Antwerp. [Sidenote: The hazardous crossing of the Aisne.]