Canada (with decision). By mutual defence, dear Mamma.
Mrs. Brit. (smilingly). My love, your answer is quite correct. And how shall we manage this mutual defence?
Cape Colony (in a business-like manner). By providing all sorts of things, dear Mamma.
Mrs. Brit. (proudly). Very good, little Hope; you are always ready with an answer. And now, can any of you tell me what those things will be?
India (without hesitation). Money, and coal and gunpowder, dear Mamma.
Mrs. Brit. (affectionately). Certainly, darling; you have given exactly the proper reply. And now, will not all this cost a large sum of money?
Tasmania (with much decision). A very large sum of money, dear Mamma—an immense sum, dear Mamma.
Mrs. Brit. (kindly). Yes, my child, you are perfectly right. And now, my cherished daughters, one more question. Who will have to pay for all this expense? (A pause.) Why, surely you know? (Continued silence.) Who will have to find the money to secure this Imperial Federation?
All Britannia's Daughters (together). Why you, dear Mamma!
Mrs. Brit. (fondling them). Darlings!