Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/63

 done the Fifth! The conquerors of the Pine Trees. A mighty epoch, to victory—conquer the world, magnificent daring—one, two! Well done, Seventh! Beat them, soldiers, the Yellow are cowards. Hack your way through, burn, destroy, heroes!

Messenger. The Yellows have invaded the stretch of country between the roots of the Pine Tree and the Stone

Chief Engineer. Entirely according to plan. Faster, soldiers, one, two, War forced on us for honour and glory, needs of the State, no conception of Justice; soldiers show your bravery, victory is ours, greatest moment in history. Quick march, quick march, quick march!

[Big bang in the distance.

The battle is beginning. Up with the reserves.

[Looks through the telescope.

Blind Ant. Blank, two, three, four—blank—

[Increasing din.

Chrysalis. Wild voices of the world, be dumb!

Your woes are at an end. I come!

Chief Engineer. Reserves stand to! (To 2nd ) Issue a report.

2nd Engineer. (In a loud voice). The battle has begun at last, under favourable weather conditions. Our heroic men are fighting in magnificent spirits.

Chief Engineer. Right turn, quick march!—one, two, one, two—faster boys!

Messenger. Our right wing is retreating. The Fifth Regiment is completely destroyed.