Britain's Escape Route

London, the capital of Britain, had already become bleak and desolate. Trenches were being dug and defensive works constructed everywhere in the streets. London's citizens had also been mobilized to help the military build fortifications. Of course, those who took part could receive a little food—barely enough to keep body and soul together. Yet this was enough to send the starving citizens into wild delight.

As the capital of the British Empire, once the German military began landing in Britain, London would inevitably come under attack. Building defensive works from now on was meant to turn London into a fortress. Of course, that was somewhat exaggerated. But the new Prime Minister, Churchill, undoubtedly hoped to make the Germans bleed dry in London.

At Downing Street, in the conference room of the Prime Minister's residence, Churchill was holding a meeting with a group of ministers.

"Gentlemen, all of Britain has now been mobilized. Nearly every one of our recruitment stations has been packed to bursting by young men. I am deeply gratified that, at a time when the British Empire faces a crisis of life and death, we have received the support of so many people. I believe that if we stand united as one, we will certainly be able to defeat the Germans." Churchill wore a broad smile.

The other Cabinet Ministers also had smiles on their faces. Although the situation remained extremely difficult, the people's soaring will to fight allowed them to glimpse at least a ray of hope.

With such a vast disparity in strength, these British ministers knew that defeating Germany was already impossible. What they were striving for now was to hold back the German offensive. And, with the advantage of fighting on home soil, they wanted to inflict as many casualties on the Germans as