Model 1907 French prototype

I picked up serial # 00010-A. I'd attach pictures, but cannot figure out how to do it on this site, so: http://forums.gunboards.com/showthre...rench-Contract

Decent shape considering it's 101 years old and has survived two world wars. Well used, but not neglected. Anyone have insight as to how the prototypes got into the general population of French WWI arms, other than the French needed anything that would shoot? Is there information out there (that I haven't been able to find) detailing the French evaluation process for these? I assumed it would be something like the US tests of the 1911, where lots of rounds were put through them, some until they failed.

Mine has the large block letter SAVAGE on the left frame, the loaded chamber gizmo, and holes for the lanyard loop. The photo of #00023-a in "Savage Pistols" shows no logo.