Second W. I. M. (hazarding a suggestion). It might mean a harbour, you know, or something of that sort.
Average Man. I daresay it might mean that, but it doesn't happen to be a harbour (relapses into paper).
Second W. I. M. Oh, well, I only made the suggestion. [A pause.
Inquirer. But what are they arbitrating about in Paris? It says (reading from newspaper) "When Mr. Carter, the United States Counsel, had concluded his speech, he was complimented by the President, the Baron de Courcel, who told him he had spoken on behalf of humanity." I thought old Carnot was President of the French Republic.
First W. I. M. So he is.
Inquirer. But this paper says Baron de Courcel is President.
Second W. I. M. Oh, I suppose that's one of Carnot's titles, All these blessed foreigners are Barons, or something of that sort.
Inquirer. Ah, I suppose that must be it. But what have the French got to do with the Behring Sea? I thought it was all between us and the Yankees.
First W. I. M. So it is—but the French are arbitrating. That's how they come into the business. I can't say, personally, I like these arbitrations. We're always arbitrating now, and giving everything away. If we think we're right, why can't we say so, and stick to it, and let the French, and the Yankees, and the Russians, and all the rest of 'em, take it from us, if they can?
Second W. I. M. Take what from us?