_Russia_. Now, I think I have arranged matters fairly well. I shall
myself lend a hand to France, and that will keep the balance decently
level, so far as Germany is concerned.
_Germany_. Will it? I can fight you both!
_Austria_. Now, keep quiet. If we are to be partners, you must not be
so impulsive.
_Italy_. Just what I say. Why can't he take it calmly!
_Russia_. Well, of course it's not my business; but if you want to
break up the Triple Alliance, that's the way to do it! Well, then,
France employed with you boys on the Rhine, I shall move down south,
and quietly occupy Constantinople. Now, no one could object to that!
_Germany_. Why, I should, and so would Austria, wouldn't you?
_Austria_. Of course. But what could we do, if we were hard at work
with France?
_Italy_. Yes; and fancy the Mediterranean becoming a Russian lake!
_Russia_. Oh, you would soon grow accustomed to it! Then I should move
on to Afghanistan, and quietly make my way to India. But all this has
to be done after the first step is taken. England must scuttle out of
Egypt.
_England_. Scuttle out of Egypt? Why, certainly! After consideration!
[_Left considering._
* * * * *
[Illustration: MISUNDERSTOOD.
_Young Lady_ (_in Contralto tones of remarkable depth and richness_).
"HAVE YOU GOT ANY _LOW_ FRENCH SONGS?"
_Music Publisher_ (_indignantly_). "_CERTAINLY_ NOT, MISS! YOU MUST
TRY SOME OTHER ESTABLISHMENT!"]
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