water without establishment, we had better sink. But what about the external relations of the country?’
‘Well, you know, first we’ve got to pay the piper all round; next we are to hand over Egypt to France, our rights in the Suez Canal being guaranteed, if we choose to insist on them in preference to making a new canal further east. The Yankees will foot it in ould Oireland; and as for the Russian bear, he hugs for good Afghanistan in the east and Asia Minor in the west. Russia, in return, cedes to us a magnificent assortment of promises for the future. But, I fancy, she will soon have her own hands full; since every ruler who ascends the throne under the old regimen, knows that he signs his own death-warrant.’
‘Some beside Russians think that Russia is to be the dominant country of the future, and to absorb Europe,’ remarked his elder daughter.
‘Possibly, Hillie; but she will have to traverse a big revolution first. If we here needed the physic, what does Russia? Anyhow, that question’s not a pressing one. We have made a terrible mess of our affairs at home and abroad, and we must lie on our bed as we have made it, and be thankful it’s no worse.’
‘Who are the people on this revolutionary committee?’ asked the younger girl.
‘There’s the list, Fri. I haven’t the pleasure of knowing any of them, and don’t wish to have.’
‘I'll tell you what, Fri,’ said her sister, winking at her, ‘if the Revolution turns us all adrift, you and I shall have to start as professional beauties.’
‘And in that capacity I hope you will visit Dulham,’ joined in Lesbia, ‘where Uncle Spines and I are going to set up the cult of Baal Peor.’
‘Lesbia, for shame!’ said her mother.
‘Baal Berith will be more to the purpose, Lesbie,’
