to the rescue of the Government and take the command that Old Red
has thrown up?

MITCHENER. How can I? You know that the people are devoted heart
and soul to Sandstone. He is only bringing you "on the knee," as
we say in the army. Could any other living man have persuaded the
British nation to accept universal compulsory military service as
he did last year? Why, even the Church refused exemption. He is
supreme--omnipotent.

BALSQUITH. He WAS, a year ago. But ever since your book of
reminiscences went into two more editions than his, and the rush
for it led to the wrecking of the Times Book Club, you have
become to all intents and purposes his senior. He lost ground by
saying that the wrecking was got up by the booksellers. It showed
jealousy: and the public felt it.

MITCHENER. But I cracked him up in my book--you see I could do no
less after the handsome way he cracked me up in his--and I cant
go back on it now. (Breaking loose from Balsquith.) No: its no
use, Balsquith: he can dictate his terms to you.

BALSQUITH. Not a bit of it. That affair of the curate--

MITCHENER (impatiently). Oh, damn that curate. Ive heard of
nothing but that wretched mutineer for a fortnight past. He is
not a curate: whilst he is serving in the army he is a private
soldier and nothing else. I really havent time to discuss him
further. Im busy. Good morning. (He sits down at his table and
takes up his letters.)