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ws-header ws-noexport noprint dynlayout-exempt"><div class="wst-header-mainblock wst-unknown-mainblock headertemplate"><div class="wst-header-back searchaux wst-unknown-back"><div class="wst-header-back-arrow">←</div><div class="wst-header-back-link"><a href="/wiki/%27And_so_ad_infinitum%27_(The_Life_of_the_Insects)/Act_2" title="'And so ad infinitum' (The Life of the Insects)/Act 2">Act 2</a></div></div><div class="wst-header-central-cell wst-unknown-central-cell"><span class="wst-header-title wst-unknown-title"><span id="header-title-text"><a href="/wiki/%27And_so_ad_infinitum%27_(The_Life_of_the_Insects)" title="'And so ad infinitum' (The Life of the Insects)">‘And so <i>ad infinitum</i>’ (The Life of the Insects)</a></span><br id="header-title-break" /><span class="contributor-text"><span class="fn"><a href="/wiki/Author:Karel_%C4%8Capek" title="Author:Karel Čapek">Karel Čapek</a> and <a href="/wiki/Author:Josef_%C4%8Capek" title="Author:Josef Čapek">Josef Čapek</a></span></span>, <span class="contributor-text">translated by <span class="fn"><a href="/wiki/Author:Paul_Selver" title="Author:Paul Selver">Paul Selver</a></span></span></span></div><div class="wst-header-forward searchaux wst-unknown-forward"><div class="wst-header-forward-link"><a href="/wiki/%27And_so_ad_infinitum%27_(The_Life_of_the_Insects)/Epilogue" title="'And so ad infinitum' (The Life of the Insects)/Epilogue">Epilogue</a></div><div class="wst-header-forward-arrow">→</div></div></div><div class="wst-header-notes header_notes searchaux wst-unknown-notes"><style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r14321584">.mw-parser-output .plainSister{display:block;font-size:93%;line-height:normal;list-style-type:none;list-style-image:none;list-style-position:outside;border:1px solid #AAA;float:right;clear:right;margin:0.5ex 0 0.5ex 0.5ex;padding:0;background:#FFFFFF;color:#202122}.mw-parser-output .sisicon,.mw-parser-output .dabicon{padding-right:1ex}</style><ul class="plainSister"><li class="sisitem"><span class="sisicon"><span typeof="mw:File/Frameless"><a href="/wiki/Portal:Portals" title="Portal:Portals"><img alt="Related Portals" src="//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/Wikisource-logo.svg/18px-Wikisource-logo.svg.png" decoding="async" width="18" height="19" class="mw-file-element" srcset="//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/Wikisource-logo.svg/27px-Wikisource-logo.svg.png 1.5x, //upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4c/Wikisource-logo.svg/36px-Wikisource-logo.svg.png 2x" data-file-width="410" data-file-height="430" /></a></span></span><a href="/wiki/Portal:Portals" title="Portal:Portals">related portals</a>: <a href="/wiki/Portal:Drama" title="Portal:Drama">Drama</a>, <a href="/wiki/Portal:Plays" title="Portal:Plays">Plays</a></li></ul></div><div class="ws-noexport" id="ws-data" style="speak:none"><span id="ws-article-id">3032887</span><span id="ws-title"><a href="/wiki/%27And_so_ad_infinitum%27_(The_Life_of_the_Insects)" title="'And so ad infinitum' (The Life of the Insects)">‘And so <i>ad infinitum</i>’ (The Life of the Insects)</a></span><span id="ws-translator">Paul Selver</span><span id="ws-author"><a href="/wiki/Author:Karel_%C4%8Capek" title="Author:Karel Čapek">Karel Čapek</a> and <a href="/wiki/Author:Josef_%C4%8Capek" title="Author:Josef Čapek">Josef Čapek</a></span></div></div> <p><span style="display:none" id="dynamic_layout_overrider">Layout 2</span> </p> <div class="prp-pages-output" lang="en"> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="44" data-page-number="44" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/50" data-page-index="50" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/50"><span id="pageindex_50" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r13089542">.mw-parser-output .wst-center{text-align:center;display:table;margin:0 auto 0 auto}.mw-parser-output .wst-center.wst-center-nomargin>p{margin-bottom:0}</style><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><span style="font-size: 120%;">ACT III</span> </p><p>THE ANTS </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Tramp.</i> It ’s like this ’ere . . . What ’s wrong about<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Them insec’s, if yer think it out,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Is, they’ve no feller-feelin’. Each<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Jest for ’isself is what they preach. </p><p><i>Chrysalis.</i> Listen to me, listen to me—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:6em"></span>The whole world will soon be free! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Thinks ’e ’s the world, ’e does <style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r9031029">.mw-parser-output .nowrap,.mw-parser-output .nowrap a:before,.mw-parser-output .nowrap .selflink:before{white-space:nowrap}</style><link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><span class="nowrap">. . .</span> My ’at!<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>These insec’s all be’aves like that—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Ridic’lous creatures! Jest can’t see<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>’Ow small they looks to you and me <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><span class="nowrap">. . .</span><br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>They make me tired<link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><span class="nowrap">. . . .</span> I’d give my clay<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>(Gospel, I would) to get away.<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Man! These ’ere insec’s never dream<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Of workin’ to some general scheme. </p><p><i>Chrysalis.</i> The crowning hour approaches. Lo,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:6em"></span>The universe begins to glow! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> (<i>Jumping up</i>)<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Gorblimey, if I ’aven’t struck<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>The truth! Now, there ’s a bit o’ luck.<br />  <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="45" data-page-number="45" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/51" data-page-index="51" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/51"><span id="pageindex_51" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Insec’s won’t work together. Man<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Will. ’E can form a general plan.<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>There ’s something great in ’im what fights<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>And perishes for the nation’s rights. </p> <style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r14549452">.mw-parser-output .wst-right{text-align:right}</style><div class="wst-right"> <p>[<i>Sits down.</i> </p> </div> <p><i>Chrysalis.</i> My wings are coming. See, they spread<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.7em"></span>Beyond the vast suns overhead! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> I’ve ’it it! That ’s what makes men great—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Givin’ their lives up for the State! <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><span class="nowrap">. . .</span><br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Man’s not ’alf noble—put it straight! </p><p>’Ere what ’s that bitin’ me? Blimey, there ’s another of ’em—S’truth, I’ve sat on an Ant heap—’undreds and thousands—that ’s what they are playing at—’undreds and thousands! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>In the meanwhile the Curtain rises and displays the Ant Heap. In the Centre sits a</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Blind Ant</span> <i>who counts continuously:</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Ants</span> <i>with sacks, beans, shovels, &c., run across in time to his counting.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Blind Ant.</i> One, two, three, four—one, two, three, four. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s that? What yer counting for, old boy? </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> One, two, three, four— </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s this ’ere? A, warehouse or a factory, isn’t it? Hi, what ’s it for? </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> One, two, three, four— </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s this factory for, I’m asking—why ’s this blind feller countin’? Ah, he ’s giving them the time. They all move in time as he counts, <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="46" data-page-number="46" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/52" data-page-index="52" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/52"><span id="pageindex_52" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span>one, two, three, four. Like machines—Bah, it makes my head swim. </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> One, two, three, four— </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Chief Engineer</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Chief Engineer</i>. Quicker, quicker, one, two, three, four— </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> (<i>More quickly</i>) One, two, three, four—one, two, three, four. </p><p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:2em"></span>[They all move more quickly. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s that? I'm asking yer, sir, what ’s this ’ere factory? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What ’s your business? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Business? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> From which of the Ants? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> I’m a human man, that ’s what I am. Ants indeed! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> This is an Ant realm. What do you want here? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> ’Avin’ a look. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Do you want work? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Shouldn’t mind. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Second Engineer</span> <i>rushes in.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> A discovery! A discovery! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What is it? </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> A new method of speeding up. Don’t count one, two, three, four—count <i>blank</i>, two, three, four—blind fellow, hullo! </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> One, two, three, four— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Wrong: Blank, two, three, four. </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two, three, four. Blank, two, three, four—(<span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">All</span> <i>move more quickly</i>). </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Not so fast—Makes me feel giddy. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Who are you? </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="47" data-page-number="47" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/53" data-page-index="53" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/53"><span id="pageindex_53" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Tramp.</i> Stranger in these parts! </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Where from? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> From the humans—Where ’s the Human Ant Heap? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Where ’s the Human Ant Heap? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Oh, over there, and over there. Everywhere. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Ha, ha! Everywhere! Fool! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Are there any humans? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Yes. They’re called the lords of creation, that ’s what they’re called. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Ha, ha! Lords of creation! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We are the lords of creation. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Ha, ha! Masters of the world! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We’re the masters of the world. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The Ant Realm! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The largest Ant State! </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> A World Power! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The largest Democracy! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s that? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The world must obey us! </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> All have to work—all for <i>Her</i>. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> As <i>She</i> orders. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Who ’s Her? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The whole of the State. The Nation! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Why, that ’s just the same as us! M.P.’s we ’ave and Boro’ Councillors, that ’s democracy—’Ave yer got Boro’ Councillors? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> No, we have the whole. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> And who speaks for the whole? </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Ha, ha! He knows nothing. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The one who orders. She who only issues commands. </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="48" data-page-number="48" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/54" data-page-index="54" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/54"><span id="pageindex_54" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>2nd Engineer.</i> She abides in the law—she is nowhere else. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> And who gives you your orders? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Reason. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Law. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The interests of the State. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> That ’s it—that ’s it— </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> I like that—all for the whole, and the whole for all. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> For its majesty. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And against its enemies. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> What ’s that? Against whom? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Against all. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> We are surrounded by enemies. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We defeated the Black Ants— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And starved out the Brown— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And subjugated the Greys, and only the Yellows are left; we must starve out the Yellows— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> We must starve them all out. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Why? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> In the interests of the whole. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The interests of the whole are the highest. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Interests of race— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Industrial interests— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Colonial interests— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> World interests— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Interests of the world. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Yes, yes, that ’s it. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> All interests are the whole’s. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Nobody may have interests but the whole. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Interests preserve the whole. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And wars nourish it. </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="49" data-page-number="49" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/55" data-page-index="55" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/55"><span id="pageindex_55" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Tramp.</i> Ah, you’ve warlike Ants. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> He knows nothing. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Our Ants are the most peaceful Ants. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> A nation of peace. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer</i>. A labour State. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> They only wish for world power— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Because they wish for world peace— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> In the interest of their peaceable output— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And in the interests of progress. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> In the interest of their interests, when we rule over the world. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We shall conquer time, we wish to reign over time. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Over what? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Time. Time is greater than space. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Time has never been mastered. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The master of Time will be master of all! </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Slowly, for the love of Mike, slowly, let me think— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Speed is the master of Time. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The taming of time— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> He who commands speed will rule over time. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Blank, two, three, four—blank, two, three, four— </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> (<i>More quickly</i>) Blank, two, three, four—blank, two— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We must quicken the speed. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The speed of output. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The Peace of Life— </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="50" data-page-number="50" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/56" data-page-index="56" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/56"><span id="pageindex_56" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Every movement must be quickened. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Shortened— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Calculated— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> To a second— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> To the <i>n</i>th of a second— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> So as to save time— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> So as to increase the output— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Work had been too slow—labour must be carried out unsparingly— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Ruthlessly— </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> And what ’s the hurry, anyway? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The interests of the whole. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> It is a question of output—question of power. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Peaceful competition. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> We are fighting the battle of peace. </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two, three, four— </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">An Official</span> <i>approaches the</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Two Engineers</span> <i>and makes a report.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:4.5em; text-indent:-4.5em;"><i>Tramp.</i> Blank, two, three, four! Yer <i>must</i> go quicker. Why,</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>If I was countin’, ’stead o' you, <i>I</i>’d make them vermin fly.</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Quicker, quicker, quicker! We men are jest like you,—</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>We're all for speed. I tell yer, we’re countin’ quicker, too;</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>And if we rush to ruin, we’ll ’ave ourselves to thank,—</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>So wake up, ole blind feller. On with yer countin’! Blank—</span> </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="51" data-page-number="51" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/57" data-page-index="57" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/57"><span id="pageindex_57" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Blind Ant.</i> Two, three, four— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Faster—faster— </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">An Ant</span> <i>collapses with his load and moans.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Tut, tut! What ’s that? Get up. </p><p><i>Another Ant.</i> (<i>Next to him, bending over</i>) Dead! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> One, two—carry him away, quick. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> He died honourably in the cause of speed. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> How are you lifting him? Too slowly, you’re wasting time. Drop him. Now head and feet together. Blank, two, three—wrong, drop him again. Head and feet—blank, two, three, four—take him away—blank, two, blank, two, blank— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Two, three, four—quicker. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Anyhow, he died quick enough— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Work, work, he who possesses more, must work more. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> He requires more— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> He has more to defend— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And more to gain. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We are a nation of peace—peace means work. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And work, strength. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And strength, war. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Yes, yes. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Inventor</span>, <i>groping.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Inventor.</i> Out of my way—step aside. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Our inventor— </p><p><i>Inventor.</i> Take care, take care. Don’t touch <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="52" data-page-number="52" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/58" data-page-index="58" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/58"><span id="pageindex_58" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span>my head. It is glass, it is brittle. It is greater than I am; keep out of the way, or it will burst, smash, bang. Step aside. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> How goes it? </p><p><i>Inventor.</i> It hurts me, it ’s going to burst. It may knock against the walls—bang! I can’t get my hands round it. I can scarcely carry it. Look out, do you hear? Whew, whew! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What ’s in it? </p><p><i>Inventor.</i> A machine—a new machine in my head. Oh, oh, a huge machine. Out of the way, out of the way, I’m carrying a machine. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What sort of a machine? </p><p><i>Inventor.</i> A war machine. A vast machine, a huge one. The swiftest, most effective crusher of lives. The forefront of progress, the acme of science. Whew, whew, do you hear it? Ten thousand, a hundred thousand dead! Whew, whew, it keeps on working. Two hundred thousand dead—whew, whew, whew, whew! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> (<i>To</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Tramp</span>) A genius, eh? </p><p><i>Inventor.</i> Oh, oh, what pain, my head ’s splitting—out of the way, out of the way, don’t knock against me—whew, whew, whew<style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r11569066">.mw-parser-output .wst-floatright{float:right;text-indent:0}</style><span class="wst-floatright" style="margin:0 0 0 0;">[<i>Exit.</i></span> </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> A vast intellect. The greatest of Scientists. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Nothing serves the State so much as Science. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Great is Science, and it will prevail—there will be war. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Why war? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Because we shall have a new war machine. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Because we still need a bit of the world. </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="53" data-page-number="53" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/59" data-page-index="59" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/59"><span id="pageindex_59" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Chief Engineer.</i> A bit of the world from the Birch tree to the Pine tree. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The road between the two blades of grass— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> The only open road to the South— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> A question of prestige. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And trade. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The rights of nationality. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We or the Yellows— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Never was war more honourable or urgent— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Than the war we must fight. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> We are prepared. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> We have only to find a <i><span lang="la" dir="ltr" class="wst-lang">casus belli</span></i>. </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two, three, four—<link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r11569066"><span class="wst-floatright" style="margin:0 0 0 0;">[<i>A gong.</i></span> </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What ’s that? </p><p><i>Voice.</i> (<i>Outside</i>) A messenger! A messenger! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Messenger</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Messenger.</i> I beg to announce myself. From the G.H.Q. Southern Army. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Good. </p><p><i>Messenger.</i> In accordance with our instructions, we crossed the frontier of the Yellows— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> What then? </p><p><i>Messenger.</i> The Yellows captured me and took me to their Commander-in-Chief— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And—? </p><p><i>Messenger.</i> Here is his letter— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Show it me. ‘The Government of the Yellow Ants calls upon the Ant Realm within three months to withdraw their Army lying between the Birch Tree and the Pine Tree between the two blades of grass.’ </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="54" data-page-number="54" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/60" data-page-index="60" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/60"><span id="pageindex_60" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Listen to him. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> ‘This territory comprises the historical, vital, industrial, general, and military interests of our state, so that it rightly belongs to us.’— </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> An insult, an insult, we shall not tolerate it! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> ‘Meanwhile we are giving orders to our Army to mobilize.’ War, war, at last! </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> At last a war is forced upon us. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> To arms! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Another Messenger</span> <i>runs on.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>2nd Messenger.</i> The Yellows are marching across our frontier— </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> To arms! To arms! </p><p><i>2nd Messenger.</i> Mobilization—to arms! </p><p><i>Both Messengers.</i> To arms! To arms! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Alarm sirens—from all sides the</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Ants</span> <i>scramble into the</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Ant Heap</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two, three, four—blank, two, three, four— </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Increasing din within.</i> </p> </div> <p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:1em"></span><i>Tramp.</i> It does yer good to see ’em pass,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>Prepared to shed their blood—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>And jest for ’alf a yard o’ mud,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Between two blades o’ grass. </p><p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>It does yer good to see ’em all<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>So ’andsome and so spry.<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>They’re not afraid to up and die—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>They’ve ’eard the Nation’s call. </p><p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>It makes yer think o’ them ole scenes,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>With star-shells over ’ead,<br /> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="55" data-page-number="55" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/61" data-page-index="61" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/61"><span id="pageindex_61" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>The night we left a thousan’ dead—<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>And keptured two latrines. </p><p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Now, fellers, dig yerselves right in,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>And stay there till yer bust.<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>Them Yellers wants your yard o’ dust,<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>And don’t you let ’em win! </p><p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:1em"></span><i>Chrysalis.</i> They call, they shout, they beat their drums.<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.5em"></span>The world wakes. The great moment comes! </p> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Beating of drums</i>—<span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Ants</span> <i>transform themselves into</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Soldiers. Chief Engineer</span> <i>becomes</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Commander-in-Chief</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <p><span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:1em"></span><i>Tramp.</i> Now, that ’s what trainin’ does. You’re smart lads. Put it there!</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>Crumbs! if you’re half the ant I takes yer for, I swear</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>You’ll cop that bit o’ land afore the Yellers cop it—</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>But ’ere 's the brass ’ats comin’. I guess I’d better ’op it.</span> </p> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Soldiers! We find ourselves compelled to call you to the colours. A wicked enemy has treacherously attacked us, for the purpose of outwitting our peaceable preparations. At this great hour I have been appointed Dictator. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Three cheers for the Dictator—Shout boys, or<style data-mw-deduplicate="TemplateStyles:r11476552">.mw-parser-output .wst-bar{text-decoration:line-through}.mw-parser-output .wst-bar-inner{color:transparent}</style><span class="wst-bar"><span class="wst-bar-inner">——</span></span> </p><p><i>Soldiers.</i> Hip, hip, hooray! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> (<i>Saluting</i>) Thank you! You have responded to the gravity of the moment. Soldiers, we are fighting for life and liberty. </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="56" data-page-number="56" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/62" data-page-index="62" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/62"><span id="pageindex_62" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>2nd Engineer.</i> And for the greatness of our State. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> And for the greatness of our State. We shall wage war for the interest of civilization and our military honour. Soldiers, I am with you to the last drop of my blood. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Long live our beloved Commander-in-Chief! </p><p><i>Soldiers.</i> Long live our Commander-in-Chief! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> I know my soldiers. They will fight until the final victory. Long live our gallant men. Hurrah! </p><p><i>Soldiers.</i> Hurrah! Hurrah! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> (<i>To 2nd</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Engineer</span>) The First and Second Divisions will attack frontally. The Fourth will envelope the Pine Wood, and break into the Ant Heap of the Yellows. Women and children to be slaughtered—Third Division in reserve—no quarter! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Second Engineer</span> <i>salutes.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <p>May God assist us in this. Soldiers, ’shun! Right turn—quick march! </p> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Drums.</i> </p> </div> <p>One, two! War forced upon us—one, two, one, two! In the name of Justice! No quarter! For your hearths and homes! One, two, one, two! We are only defending ourselves. War on the world. For a Greater Home Country. One, two—a ruthless enemy. Will of the Nation! To battle—strike hard. Historical claims. Brilliant spirit of the Army. One, two, one, two! </p> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Fresh</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Troops</span> <i>march past.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <p>Good luck, soldiers, I shall be behind you—Well <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="57" data-page-number="57" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/63" data-page-index="63" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/63"><span id="pageindex_63" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span>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! </p> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Messenger</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Messenger.</i> The Yellows have invaded the stretch of country between the roots of the Pine Tree and the Stone<link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r11476552"><span class="wst-bar"><span class="wst-bar-inner">——</span></span> </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> 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! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Big bang in the distance.</i> </p> </div> <p>The battle is beginning. Up with the reserves. </p> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0m"> <p>[<i>Looks through the telescope.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two, three, four—blank— </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Increasing din.</i> </p> </div> <p><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:1em"></span><i>Chrysalis.</i> Wild voices of the world, be dumb!<br /> <span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:5.7em"></span>Your woes are at an end. I come! </p> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Reserves stand to! (<i>To 2nd</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Engineer</span>) Issue a report. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> (<i>In a loud voice</i>). The battle has begun at last, under favourable weather conditions. Our heroic men are fighting in magnificent spirits. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Right turn, quick march!—one, two, one, two—faster boys! </p> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Messenger</span>. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Messenger.</i> Our right wing is retreating. The Fifth Regiment is completely destroyed. </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="58" data-page-number="58" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/64" data-page-index="64" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/64"><span id="pageindex_64" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Chief Engineer.</i> According to plan. Sixth Regiment replace them. Chief Engineer. According to plan. Sixth Regiment replace them. </p> </div> <p><span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:1em"></span><i>Tramp.</i> Ho, yuss! <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r9031029"><span class="nowrap">. . .</span> There was other reports that began</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>‘The Regiment was butchered—accordin’ to plan!’</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>And after ’is battle, ’e’ll go round and scan</span><br /> <span style="display: inline-block; margin-left:5.5em; text-indent:-5.5em;"><span class="wst-gap __gap" style="display:inline-block; inline-size:4.5em"></span>The corpses, all ’eaped up—‘accordin’ to plan’.</span> </p> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Stretcher-bearers</span> <i>with wounded.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.2em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>A Wounded Man.</i> The fifth Regiment, our regiment—we’re all destroyed. Stop! Stop! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Telegraph instrument clatters.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Signal Officer.</i> (<i>Reading dispatch</i>) ‘Fifth regiment destroyed. We await orders.’ </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Sixth take its place. (<i>To 2nd</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Engineer</span>) Issue a report. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The battle is developing successfully. The Fifth Regiment especially distinguished itself, heroically repelling all attacks, whereupon it was relieved by the Sixth. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Bravo! I will decorate you with the steel Cross. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Thank you. I am only doing my duty. </p><p><i>Journalist.</i> (<i>Approaching with note-book</i>) I am a journalist; shall we announce a victory? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Yes. Successful operations. Thanks to our plans prepared years ago. The admirable spirit of our forces—irresistible advance—the enemy demoralized. </p><p><i>Journalist.</i> We—we—we<link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r11476552"><span class="wst-bar"><span class="wst-bar-inner">——</span></span> </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Eh? </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="59" data-page-number="59" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/65" data-page-index="65" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/65"><span id="pageindex_65" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Journalist.</i> We will print everything. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Good. We rely upon the cooperation of the Press. Don’t forget the admirable spirit. </p><p><i>Journalist.</i> The Press is performing its d-duty! </p> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r14549452"><div class="wst-right"> <p>[<i>Exit.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.5em;"> </div> <link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r13089542"><div class="wst-center tiInherit wst-center-nomargin"> <p><i>Enter</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">Philanthropist</span> <i>with collecting-box.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Philanthropist.</i> Help the wounded! All for the wounded! Gifts for the wounded. Give to the wounded. Help for the cripples. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Second Division attack—it must break through whatever the sacrifice. </p><p><i>Philanthropist.</i> For our heroes—help your brothers—help for the wounded. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> War for the wounded! Coppers for their wounds. </p><p><i>Philanthropist.</i> Help for the wounded—give to the cripples. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> (<i>He tears off a button and puts it in the collecting-box</i>) All for the wounded! My last button for the war! </p><p><i>Another Wounded Man.</i> Oh! Put me out of my misery, do! </p><p><i>Philanthropist.</i> Aid the wounded. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Telegraph instrument again.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Signal Officer.</i> The right wing of the Yellows is retreating. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Pursue them. Finish them off. Don’t bother about prisoners. </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> The enemy retiring in confusion. Our regiments in defiance of death, dogging his footsteps with splendid daring. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Fourth Levy! </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="60" data-page-number="60" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/66" data-page-index="66" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/66"><span id="pageindex_66" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Signal Officer.</i> The fourth regiment has invested the Pine Tree and has made a rear attack on the Ant Heap of the Yellows—the garrison is slaughtered. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Raze it to the ground—finish off the civilians. </p><p><i>Signal Officer.</i> The enemy is overwhelmed—they have evacuated a foot of the furze bush. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Victory is ours. (<i>Falls on knees and removes his helmet</i>) Great god of the Ants, thou hast granted victory to thy servants. I appoint thee honorary Colonel. (<i>Jumps up</i>) Third Division forward, all reserves forward—no prisoners. Forward (<i>Again on his knees</i>) Righteous god of strength, thou knowest that our holy cause—(<i>Jumps up</i>) After them—after them—attack them—hunt them down—slaughter everybody. The empire of the world is settled. (<i>Kneels</i>) God of the Ants, in this significant hour—(<i>Prays silently.</i>) </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> (<i>Bending over him softly</i>) Empire of the World! You miserable Ant you, you call this bit of clay and grass the world? This dirty little patch of soil? If I was to trample down all this ’ere Ant ’eap of yours and you with it, d’yer think these ’ere trees above yer would notice it? Not they! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Who are you? </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> Only a voice. Though yesterday p’r’aps I was a soldier on another ant heap. What yer think of yerself, conqueror of the world? Feel big enough? Don’t that ’eap of corpses seem too small—for your glory, yer miserable image? </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> (<i>Rising</i>) I disregard you entirely—I proclaim myself Emperor! </p> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div> <p> <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="61" data-page-number="61" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/67" data-page-index="67" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/67"><span id="pageindex_67" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><i>Signal Officer.</i> The Second Division is asking for reinforcements. Our troops seem exhausted. </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> They must hold out. Shoot down defaulters. </p><p><i>Signal Officer.</i> The Third Division has been thrown into confusion. </p><p><i>An Ant.</i> (<i>Escapes across stage</i>) We’re running away! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Mobilize the nation! </p><p><i>A Shout.</i> No! No! Back, back! </p><p><i>Piercing cry.</i> Save yourselves! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Send the unfit to the front—every one must go! </p><p><i>Soldier.</i> They’re beating us, run. </p><p><i>Two Soldiers.</i> They’ve surrounded us—escape! </p><p><i>A Soldier.</i> To the West. Escape to the West! </p><p><i>Soldiers.</i> They’ve surrounded us from the West—run to the East! </p><p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> Back! To your places—to the front. Face to West. </p><p><i>Crowd.</i> (<i>From</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">r</span>.) Escape, they’re hunting us down. To the East. </p><p><i>Crowd.</i> (<i>From</i> <span class="smallcaps" style="font-variant:small-caps;">l</span>.) To the West, out of the way, they’re here! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>The two streams begin to fight.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Chief Engineer.</i> (<i>Shouting at them</i>) Back, cowards! You cattle—I am your Emperor. </p><p><i>A Soldier.</i> Lie down. (<i>Runs him through</i>) Escape! </p><p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> (<i>Runs in wounded</i>) They’ve taken the city. Put out the lights. </p><p><i>The Yellows.</i> (<i>Penetrating from both sides</i>) Hurrah! Hurrah! The Ant Heap is ours! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Lights go out: confusion.</i> </p> </div> <div class="__nop wst-nop"></div>  <span><span class="pagenum ws-pagenum" id="62" data-page-number="62" data-page-name="Page:The life of the insects by Čapek brothers.pdf/68" data-page-index="68" data-page-quality="3" title="Page:The_life_of_the_insects_by_%C4%8Capek_brothers.pdf/68"><span id="pageindex_68" class="pagenum-inner ws-noexport"></span></span></span><div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>2nd Engineer.</i> Fight! Fight! Ah! </p><p><i>Yellow Leader.</i> Into the passages after them—spare nobody, slaughter all the men. </p><p><i>Shouts of slaughtered men.</i> Ah! Ah! </p><p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two—blank, two—blank, two. </p><p><i>Yellow Leader.</i> After them—murder—murder them all. </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>The din becomes more remote.</i> </p> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Blind Ant.</i> Blank, two—blank, two—blank, two— </p><p><i>Yellow Leader.</i> Light! </p> </div> <div class="wst-dhr" style="visibility:hidden; line-height:0.25em;"> </div> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:3em; text-indent:0"> <p>[<i>Lights are lit—the foreground is empty—corpses piled everywhere.</i> </p> </div> <p>Excellent, Yellows. All are slaughtered. </p> <div class="wst-dent" style="margin-left:0; text-indent:1em"> <p><i>Tramp.</i> Chuck it, General! </p><p><i>Yellow Leader.</i> The victory of the Yellows. The victory of justice and progress. Ours is the path between the two blades of grass. The world belongs to us Yellows. I proclaim myself Ruler of the Universe. </p><p><i>Chrysalis.</i> I—I—I<link rel="mw-deduplicated-inline-style" href="mw-data:TemplateStyles:r11476552"><span class="wst-bar"><span class="wst-bar-inner">——</span></span> </p><p><i>Yellow Leader</i> (<i>on his knees</i>). Most righteous god of the Ants—thou knowest that we fight only for justice, our victory, our national honour, our commercial interests. </p><p><i>Tramp.</i> (<i>Rushes out, kicks him over, and grinds him into pieces with his boot</i>) Bah! 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