law in it?'

The Doctor laughed, and looked at Alfred.

'Granted, if you please, that war is foolish,' said Snitchey.
'There we agree. For example. Here's a smiling country,' pointing
it out with his fork, 'once overrun by soldiers - trespassers every
man of 'em - and laid waste by fire and sword. He, he, he! The
idea of any man exposing himself, voluntarily, to fire and sword!
Stupid, wasteful, positively ridiculous; you laugh at your fellow-
creatures, you know, when you think of it! But take this smiling
country as it stands. Think of the laws appertaining to real
property; to the bequest and devise of real property; to the
mortgage and redemption of real property; to leasehold, freehold,
and copyhold estate; think,' said Mr. Snitchey, with such great
emotion that he actually smacked his lips, 'of the complicated laws
relating to title and proof of title, with all the contradictory
precedents and numerous acts of parliament connected with them;
think of the infinite number of ingenious and interminable chancery
suits, to which this pleasant prospect may give rise; and
acknowledge, Dr. Jeddler, that there is a green spot in the scheme
about us! I believe,' said Mr. Snitchey, looking at his partner,
'that I speak for Self and Craggs?'

Mr. Craggs having signified assent, Mr. Snitchey, somewhat
freshened by his recent eloquence, observed that he would take a
little more beef and another cup of tea.

'I don't stand up for life in general,' he added, rubbing his hands
and chuckling, 'it's full of folly; full of something worse.