SPIRIT OF THE YEARS

The ruling was that we should witness things
And not dispute them. To the drama, then.
Emprizes over-Channel are the key
To this land's stir and ferment.--Thither we.

[Clouds gather over the scene, and slowly open elsewhere.]



SCENE II

PARIS. OFFICE OF THE MINISTER OF MARINE

[ADMIRAL DECRES seated at a table. A knock without.]


DECRES

Come in! Good news, I hope!

[An attendant enters.]


ATTENDANT
A courier, sir.