One of the most dramatic and heroic acts of this world-War was the noble self-sacrifice of a mere child of fourteen years. An Alsatian Boy Scout, whose father had been killed in Alsace, offered his services to the colonel of a regiment near Altkrich. Knowing every path, mountain trail, and road, brave and intelligent, he was accepted.
During many weeks he rendered valuable services, bringing information enabling French progress and capture of prisoners. One day the colonel asked him to make a longer and more perilous quest than usual. Our young hero started, full of zeal and hope, and was allowed to take his dog Fidele. Having to sleep out for two nights, he knew his dog would not betray him.
All went well for a long while, though the journey was full of perils. Suddenly two burly Prussians barred his path, and he was taken before the enemy officers in charge of the nearest post.
Asked his name, “Karl Webler,” he replied. “Where do you live?” “With my mother at Altkrich.” “Your father?” “Killed.” “You bear a German name and speak German. Why are you helping the enemy?” “I am Alsatian and love France, my motherland.” “Stupid young fool,” said the officer, “do you know your fate—a spy?” “Yes, sir.” “Do you love your mother?” “With all my heart.” “Very well. You love your mother, and would like to live. I will let you go and give you one hundred francs if you will tell me how many regiments and how many batteries are defending Altkrich.” “No, sir, I cannot.” “Why?” “Because I promised never to betray my country.” “Idiot!” The officer then said: “I will give you five minutes. Accept my generous offer, or you die.” The fateful minutes finished. “Well?” “Sir, I cannot and will not betray my country.”
A few minutes afterward the little hero and his faithful dog were dead. The story was related by a prisoner who witnessed the scene.
The widowed mother, now childless, broken-hearted, but proud, points visitors to the two medals sent her by the French Government― “La Medaille Militaire,” and “La Croix de Guerre.”