Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/69



Tramp. (Speaking in his sleep) Chuck it, General! (Wakes) Been nappin’, ’ave I? Crumbs, I feel cold. I’m sick—shiverin’ all over Where am I? Can’t see me ’ands, it’s so bloomin’ dark  ’Oo ’s that speakin’? (Shouting) ’Ullo! ’oo ’s talkin’? Nothin’—no one anywhere. Gawd! I’m skeered. Where ’s the sky got to? There ain’t no sky! Can’t be dead, can I? Feel sick enough. For ’eaven’s sake, a bit of light—jest a glimmer!

A Voice. Wait, wait. The light is coming.

Tramp. I can ’ear voices—everywhere, voices! ’Ark!

Voice of Ant-Soldier. I’m wounded I’m thirsty.

Voice of Ant-Commander. Army of Occupation, advance!

Voice of Mr. Beetle. My pile! Where ’s my little pile?

Voice of a Butterfly. Iris! Iris!

Tramp. Give us a bit of light! I’m skeered!

Voice of Cricket. Another cricket lived here a long time ago. Careful, mumsy, careful!

Voice of Ichneumon Fly. Aha! Got them!

Voice of Ant-Soldier. Water, water!