_General._ Yes, but let us first
Discuss the general welfare of the troops
Whose good's our care.

_Sergeant-Cook (aside to Colonel)._ The time is getting long;
The stew's congealing fast.

_Colonel._ Good General,
Your grace toward our people doth confound
Th' expression of our gratitude. The hour
For dinner is at hand. An you would grace
The issue with your presence it would make
The meal the sweeter.

_General (aside)._ There doth seem to be
More than politeness in these invitations.
(_To Colonel_) I am no cook to judge by sight and touch
The flavour of a dish. Issue the dinners
To all the rank and file, that so my pleasure
In marking their expressions of content
Be equal to the praise I shall bestow.

_Voice within._ Help! help! The cooks have fainted in the stew.

_Adjutant._ They'll not be noticed.

_Colonel._ Now hath fortune proved
My master. I'll not live a slave to Chance.