[_With a grim smile._

But I recommend that you do not send your service uniforms to the tailor
tonight. You may have need of them.

[_There is another cheer. The_ OFFICERS _stand about in groups
a minute or so, then file out through the double-door in the centre of
the rear wall. One elderly general, only, comes up quickly to the desk._


GENERAL

[_In a rasping voice, to the_ CHIEF OF STAFF.

Delay again? Aren't we ever going to get at their throats?


CHIEF OF STAFF

We are ready. But the King!

[_He shrugs his shoulders._

The peace propagandists are after him. Mediation is the magic word.
Mediation--by which the neutral nations block our legitimate road to
victory for their own benefit, in the name of civilization and progress.


GENERAL