toe-the-mark

Updated: May 17, 2025

He spoke of his men, of their loyalty and cheerfulness, as the other commanders had, as if this were his only boast. These French officers have little "side"; none of that toe-the-mark, strutting militarism which the Germans think necessary to efficiency. They live very simply on campaign, though if they do get to town for a few hours they enjoy a good meal.

Frederick Palmer - My Year of the War: Including an Account of Experiences with the Troops in France and: the Record of a Visit to the Grand Fleet Which is Here Given for the: First Time in its Complete Form