SWINDON (puzzled). Do I understand that in your opinion---

BURGOYNE. I do not express my opinion. I never stoop to that
habit of profane language which unfortunately coarsens our
profession. If I did, sir, perhaps I should be able to express my
opinion of the news from Springtown--the news which YOU
(severely) have apparently not heard. How soon do you get news
from your supports here?--in the course of a month eh?

SWINDON (turning sulky). I suppose the reports have been taken to
you, sir, instead of to me. Is there anything serious?

BURGOYNE (taking a report from his pocket and holding it up).
Springtown's in the hands of the rebels. (He throws the report on
the table.)

SWINDON (aghast). Since yesterday!

BURGOYNE. Since two o'clock this morning. Perhaps WE shall be in
their hands before two o'clock to-morrow morning. Have you
thought of that?

SWINDON (confidently). As to that, General, the British soldier
will give a good account of himself.

BURGOYNE (bitterly). And therefore, I suppose, sir, the British
officer need not know his business: the British soldier will get
him out of all his blunders with the bayonet. In future, sir, I
must ask you to be a little less generous with the blood of your