Recruit. Well, I did think of the Tenth Hussars.
Foreman (promptly). Quite right, Sir. First-class Regiment, commanded by His Royal Highness Field Marshal the Prince of WALES. (To Assistant.) Show this gentleman the way to the outfitting-room—Tenth Hussars.
[Recruit in less than no
time is fitted out. On his return
to the Central Hall he is
once more greeted by a principal
official.
Foreman. Now, Sir, you would like to learn your drill?
Recruit. Well, yes—
Foreman. Quite so. We teach it in six easy lessons, at twelve shillings a lesson. You can pay for it either out of your reserved pay, or now. If the latter, we allow five per cent. discount.
Recruit (without hesitation). I think I will pay it later.
Foreman (putting up his receipt-book). Certainly, Sir, No difference to us. And now, Sir, perhaps you will take your lessons.
[Recruit goes through a
course which soon puts him to-rights.
At the end he shakes Foreman
warmly by the hand.
Recruit. You are sure that I really know my drill?
Foreman. Quite. Why, Sir, you are letter perfect. And now, is there anything more we can do for you?
Recruit. Well, I did join the Army with the intention of going to the wars.
Foreman (apologetically). Very sorry, Sir, but we haven’t the article on hand just at present. Sure to have some by-and-by. Is there anything else we can do for you, Sir?
Recruit. Well, failing a war, I should like a passage to India.
Foreman (in a deprecatory tone). Well, Sir, frankly, we cannot recommend it. But if you have made up your mind, we must ask you to step over to the Waste Department. They settle such-like matters there. See over yonder, Sir, where that venerable General on crutches is. He has just got a Colonelcy, but he can’t hold it very long, as he is over eighty! And now I must say adieu, as I have other pupils claiming my assistance. Good day!
[Starts off, and prepares
food for powder in other quarters.
Curtain.
* * * * *
[Illustration: “BREEZY BRIGHTON.”]
* * * * *
[Illustration: THE REVOLT OF THE RATEPAYERS AGAINST KING KOUNTY KOUNCIL THE FIRST.
(TEMPLE, WEMYSS, AND SAVORY LEAD THE ATTACK.)]
* * * * *
THE BOARD ON BOTH SIDES.
SCENE—A Railway
Carriage. Present two Passengers
discussing the Topics of the
Day.
First Passenger. And then there’s the School Board! I am on my way to record my vote.
Second Pass. And so am I. I hope, Sir, we are of both of the way of thinking?


