And the old brain working still!
minister of war
[Rising and crossing to a window, right forward, then speaking thoughtfully.
I don't know, Clement. I am growing old. I think sometimes that war is the most terrible matter in which we erring humans become engaged. I have always thought that—at times.
chief of staff
[Who has crossed to the Left and stands facing a map of the world, covering half the wall.
So you are a sentimentalist, after all?
minister of war
[Looking out of the window.
No. Because there is something stronger in me, conquering the repulsion. My temperament, character, destiny. I am impelled to war. A dozen generations of soldiers in my blood press me on. My whole education presses me on. My sympathies and my religious sense make me tremble before the impending horror, but—I confess to you—I believe I want this war.