_Prac. Pas._ Is there any objection to the construction of the Channel
Tunnel?

_Theo. Pas._ (_carelessly_). None in the least--but why do you ask?

_Prac. Pas._ Because, if in the case of war, the entire French nation
pours into England;--as you say it will?

_Theo. Pas._ Certainly.

_Prac. Pas._ The best thing we can do is to utilise the Tunnel, pour
into France, and stay there! It will be only changing sides!

[_Conversation interrupted by whistle, and consequent rattle
and darkness._

* * * * *

THE SPHINX AND THE STICK.

_A SONG WHEREIN IS SUGGESTED A SUITABLE SUBJECT FOR AN IBSENITE
TRAGEDY._

[Sir JAMES CRICHTON-BROWNE thinks that "the reserve and
suppression of emotional movement which is observed in
English people" will probably result in all the women becoming
sphinxes, and all the men sticks.]

"Oh! do wag your head!" said the Sphinx to the Stick.
"I _can't_," he replied, "or I would, darling, quick!