"Savon," the doctor began didactically, "is a preparation of fatty acids saponified with alkali. It is principally manufactured from coker-nut oil, although other similar, if less offensive, substances are sometimes employed. In the English tongue it is known as 'soap,' and——"
"You idiot," said the War Babe amiably, "I know what 'savon' is. But what's a 'jollymouse'?"
"A rodent," replied the Doctor—"a small rodent in a state of mental exhilaration or merriment."
"Rats."
"Yes, the same definition would also apply to rats. Jolly rats, that is to say."
"You're very bright to-day, Doctor," said the War Babe, "but it doesn't happen to be that kind of mouse at all. It's j-o-l-i, jolly; m-o-u-s-s-e——"
"Why didn't you say that before? That's quite different. It's pronounced moose—zholimoose."
The War Babe sniffed.
"I don't believe you know what it means any more than I do."
"Son of Mars," the Doctor answered gravely, "you are measuring my ignorance by your own—a great mistake. As a matter of fact that word is put on the packet simply to deceive unwary Babes. It has nothing whatever to do with soap."