"Really, for childish simplicity the English are the biggest fools in creation." "But do you mean--" "I mean that the Germans are a very knowledge-seeking people, and that we gratify their desires in a very simple fashion.

Do you think they are so friendly, Michael?
Do you know, for instance, what is a very common toast in German regimental messes?
They do not drink it when there are foreigners there, but one night during the manoeuvres an officer in a mess where Tony was dining got slightly 'on,' as you may say, and suddenly drank to 'Der Tag.'" "That means 'The Day,'" said Michael confidently.
"It does; and what day?
The day when Germany thinks that all is ripe for a war with us.

'Der Tag' will dawn suddenly from a quiet, peaceful night, when they think we are all asleep, and when they have got all the information they think is accessible.

War, my dear." Michael had never in his life seen his aunt so serious, and he was amazed at her gravity.
"There are hundreds and hundreds of their spies all over England," she said, "and hundreds of their agents all over America.

Deep, patient Germany, as Carlyle said.