We see the coast-guard aeroplanes at almost any time o'day.

What is the mood about the big battle?
The soldiers--British and French--have confidence in their ability to hold the Germans back from the Channel and from Paris.

Yet can one rely on the judgment of soldiers?
They have the job in hand and of course they believe in themselves.

While one does not like in the least to discount their judgment and their hopefulness, for my part I am not _quite_ so sure of their ability to make sound judgments as I wish I were.

The chances are in favour of their success; but--suppose they should have to yield and give up Calais and other Channel ports?
Well, they've prepared for it as best they can.