make bets and abuse the confidence of the hardworked officials
who are doing their bit for their country whilst our gallant
fellows are perishing in the trenches--

THE LADY. Oh, the gallant fellows are not all in the trenches,
Augustus. Some of them have come home for a few days' hard-earned
leave; and I am sure you won't grudge them a little fun at your
expense.

THE CLERK. Hear! hear!

AUGUSTUS [amiably]. Ah, well! For my country's sake--!