“Well, I don't think,” said Joe. “Germans?”
Gazing up into his face Mr. Lavender read the unmistakable signs of uncontrolled surprise.
“Why do you look at me like that?” he said.
“Germans?” repeated Joe; “what Germans? Three blighters workin' on the road, as English as you or me. Wot are you talkin' about, sir?”
“What!” cried Mr. Lavender, “do you tell me they were not Germans?”
“Well, their names was Tompkins, 'Obson, and Brown, and they 'adn't an 'aitch in their 'eads.”
“God be praised!” said Mr. Lavender. “I am, then, still an English gentleman. Joe, I am very hungry; is there nothing left?”
“Nothin' whatever, sir,” replied Joe.
“Then take me home,” said Mr. Lavender; “I care not, for my spirit has come back to me.”
So saying, he rose, and supported by Joe, made his way towards the car, praising God in his heart that he had not disgraced his country.