CHAPTER XII
In which Ygene, the Assistant, Gives a Reasonable Piece of Advice, which is Eagerly Rejected by Doctor Ox
"Well, master," said Ygene next day, as he poured the pails of sulphuric acid into the troughs of the great battery.
"Well," resumed Doctor Ox, "was I not right? See to what not only the physical developments of a whole nation, but its morality, its dignity, its talents, its political sense, have come! It is only a question of molecules."
"No doubt; but———"
"But———"
"Do you not think that matters have gone far enough, and that these poor devils should not be excited beyond measure?"
"No, no!" cried the doctor; "no! I will go on to the end!"
"As you will, master; the experiment, however, seems to me conclusive, and I think it time to———"
"To———"
"To close the valve."
"You'd better!" cried Doctor Ox. "If you attempt it, I'll throttle you!"
CHAPTER XIII
In which it is Once More Proved that by Taking High Ground all Human Littlenesses may be Overlooked
"You say?" asked the Burgomaster Van Tricasse of the Counselor Niklausse.
"I say that this war is necessary," replied Niklausse, firmly, "and that the time has come to avenge this insult."
"And I repeat to you," snapped the burgomaster tartly, "that if the people of Quiquendone do not profit by this occasion to vindicate their rights, they will be unworthy of their name."
"And as for me, I maintain that we ought, without delay, to collect our forces and lead them to the front."
"Really, monsieur, really!" replied Van Tricasse. "And do you speak thus to me?"
"To yourself, monsieur the burgomaster; and you shall hear the truth, unwelcome as it may be."
389
