(An adaptation from the French.)
Anyone. Let us accuse the Ministry of misappropriating twopence-halfpenny.
The Entire Press. Certainly, why not?
The Opposition. The Ministry are thieves.
The Government. After this insult we resign en masse.
One of the Public. It is said that Mr. Briefless Junior has accused the First Lord of having stolen the Horse-Guards clock.
First Lord. Please, Lord Chief Justice, request Mr. Briefless Junior to keep a civil tongue in his head.
L. C. J. The Attorney-General is the proper person to offer a remonstrance.
Sir Charles. Can't undertake rows since I have restricted my private practice.
Ex-Chancellor of the Exchequer. I accuse the Lord Chancellor.
Lord Chancellor. Why, and of what?
Those Concerned. Never mind that. What does it matter who's accused, so long as everybody forgets us.
Someone. And now everything's completely mixed, does anyone know what the row's about?
Everybody Else (after a short silence). Don't know, and don't care!
"PUTTING OFF."
Old Aquatic Hand, loquitur:—
Look here, bonny boys! As we're launching our ship,
And stringing our energies up for the tussle,
Allow your old Stroke to suggest the straight tip!
This is not a mere matter of Milo-like muscle.
You are all looking fit, we've the pull in the weights—