* * * * *

THE DEATH PENALTY; OR, WHO'S TO BLAME?

ACT I.

SCENE--_House of Commons, rather sparsely attended, it being
the occasion of a statement on the needs of the Army to be
made by the_ Secretary for War.

_Secretary for War_ (_continuing his speech_). And so, Mr. SPEAKER,
I trust that I have justified the demand I have made for so many
millions for building Barracks, and conclusively proved that the
Authorities responsible for our military efficiency are thoroughly
alive to the necessity not only of safeguarding the lives, but of
increasing the comfort, of our gallant defenders. (_Cheers_.)

ACT II.

SCENE--_Celebrated London Barracks. Fire just broken out in
top storey of Married Soldiers' Quarters, crowded with women
and children. Soldiers rushing for ladders. Some children
handed up through a trap-door, which is supposed to lead to
roof. No exit on to roof available, and children being slowly
smothered. Screams. Great excitement._

_Non-Commissioned Officer_. Ha! Fire in the "Rookery!" And it'll burn
like paper, being old and rotten! Now, where's the fellow who ought to
have the key of the hydrant? (_Exit in search of him._)