"Well—a—let us say that it was not the act of a brave and generous foe. The flag—the flag, Penfield, should be used for purposes of inspiration rather than protection. However, the enemy, having placed himself under the auspices and protection of the flag which should, in any event, be unassailable, I presume he marched away in safety and security?"
"Why, no—not exactly."
"Penfield, I trust that no one had the hardihood to assault the bearer of his country's flag?"
"Grandfather, I couldn't help it. He made me mad."
"Don't tell me, sir, that you so far forgot yourself as to lead an attack on the colors?"
"No, I didn't. I pitched into him alone. I had to lick him, flag or no flag."
"Penfield, I'm astounded! I wouldn't have thought it of you. And what happened, sir?"
"Why, we clinched and went down."
"But, the flag? the flag?"
"That went down too."