CHAPTER XI
The German Soldier

The Greater Misfortune

“The enemies of our military system,” said an examining officer, “say that a standing army is a great misfortune. Can you tell me of a still greater one?”

“One that is running away,” was the quick rejoinder.

Sitting and Standing

A soldier who was supposed to stand guard at the entrance of a public building, had sat down on a large stone in front of it. An officer, in passing, asked him angrily: “What are you doing?”

“I am sitting here standing guard.”

The Soldier’s Requisites

Lieutenant:—“What should every true soldier have?”