Summary

Chapter 15: The Cossacks Are Coming!

The Russians were grateful to the French for standing by the alliance. They were eager to show their support to the French. The Czar proclaimed that the annihilation of the Germans was their priority. He ordered to Grand Duke to open the way to Berlin as soon as possible. The French asked Russia to put a move on their involvement. But, there was a disconnect between Russian rhetoric and Russian readiness. The Grand Duke reportedly shed tears when he was named Commander in Chief. He didn’t know how to approach his duties. There were other tears – Messimy burst into tears while giving a talk before the Cabinet on August 5th; Churchill broke down and cried during a discussion with Henry Wilson.

Russia was not prepared for the advanced date of attack which they had promised to the...