Mil. A. I suppose so, if you want the troops to move over an unfamiliar country.
Sec. of S. But I am not sure I do. Why shouldn't they learn how to defend Aldershot? Then it would cost nothing. What next?
Mil. A. Well, there will be the Commissariat expenses.
Sec. of S. Suppose food costs the same in most places. Besides, isn't TOMMY ATKINS supposed to purchase his own victuals?
Mil. A. Yes, theoretically I suppose he is; but practically he—
Sec. of S. Oh, bother practice! Of course he must, somehow; he must pay for the Commissariat out of his own pocket.
Mil. A. Well, then there is the question of transport. Of course, many regiments have their own waggons and carts, but for a special occasion I think it would be advisable if—
Sec. of S. (interrupting). What nonsense! Why, of course we will make them all walk. It will do them a world of good!
Mil. A. Well, as we want to bring some from Scotland, it will distinctly be a long walk—a very long walk indeed!
Sec. of S. (heartily). So much the better—so much the better!