Hen. Right again! Gentlemen, I am happy to inform you that you have been drafted! [Sammy and Adolphus collapse, terror-stricken.]
Adol. Oh! I shall die!
Sam. [Trying to brace up, but shaking like a leaf.] Why don’t you take it bravely like me? [To Adolphus.]
Adol. I can’t. I’ll never come back alive—I know I shan’t.
Sam. [Brightening up suddenly.] I have it. Happy thought. [To Henry.] But they won’t take me—I am in the last stage of consumption. [Coughs.] And they don’t take consumptives.
Adol. [Eagerly.] And I have got—[Beckons Henry to come nearer—he whispers in his ear.]
Hen. Very well, gentlemen. If that is so, you are exempt. [Sammy and Adolphus elated, about to go.] Halt! You will first accompany me to headquarters, where you will be examined by the doctor; and then, if you are in the condition you say you are, you will be allowed to go. [Sammy and Adolphus get weak in the knees.]
Sam. [To Adolphus.] It’s no use, Dolphy, the jig’s up!
Adol. Why was I born?
Hen. About face! Forward, march. [Exeunt all L. 1 E. Whistle scene.]