civilians, not guns but ploughs and the tools of industry . . . It is
hoped that manufacturers may take a hint from the exhibit, which will
bear fruit in the toy shops."

"The idea is certainly an interesting and very well-meaning one," said
Harvey; "whether it would succeed well in practice--"

"We must try," interrupted his sister; "you are coming down to us at
Easter, and you always bring the boys some toys, so that will be an
excellent opportunity for you to inaugurate the new experiment. Go about
in the shops and buy any little toys and models that have special bearing
on civilian life in its more peaceful aspects. Of course you must
explain the toys to the children and interest them in the new idea. I
regret to say that the 'Siege of Adrianople' toy, that their Aunt Susan
sent them, didn't need any explanation; they knew all the uniforms and
flags, and even the names of the respective commanders, and when I heard
them one day using what seemed to be the most objectionable language they
said it was Bulgarian words of command; of course it _may_ have been, but
at any rate I took the toy away from them. Now I shall expect your
Easter gifts to give quite a new impulse and direction to the children's
minds; Eric is not eleven yet, and Bertie is only nine-and-a-half, so
they are really at a most impressionable age."

"There is primitive instinct to be taken into consideration, you know,"
said Harvey doubtfully, "and hereditary tendencies as well. One of their
great-uncles fought in the most intolerant fashion at Inkerman--he was
specially mentioned in dispatches, I believe--and their great-grandfather
smashed all his Whig neighbours' hot houses when the great Reform Bill
was passed. Still, as you say, they are at an impressionable age. I
will do my best."