'Is Aylmer older than father?'
'Yes. Aylmer's four years older. Why?'
'I don't know. I wish I had a father who could fight, like Aylmer. And
I'd like to fight too, like Teddy.'
'Aylmer hasn't any wife and children to leave. Teddy's eighteen; you're only ten.'
'Mother!'
'Yes, dear?'
'I wish I was old enough to fight. And I wish father was stronger…. Do you think I shall ever fight in this war?'
'Good heavens, dear! I hope it isn't going to last seven years more.'
'I wish it would,' said Archie ferociously. 'Mother!'
'Yes, darling?'