Old women's talk.

[_With a swagger._

Give me a sword in my right hand again, I say! I'll break open a few
skulls yet, for all my sixty years. Eh? Mediation! Let those mediate, I
say, who are afraid to fight!


CHIEF OF STAFF

[_Calmly, dispassionately._

We are not mediating yet. You may tell that to your friends if they
become downhearted.


GENERAL

[_Saluting._

To command, your Excellency! It is good that some one looks out for the
honor of the army.

[_Saluting again._

Good night, gentlemen!

[_The_ MINISTER OF WAR _half rises and bows slightly. The_