God demanded sacrifices of men.

Patriotism demanded sacrifices of men, it demanded that they should curb their inclinations and desires.

It demanded of them their first duty as men and Christians, the duty of being fruitful and multiplying, in order that they might till this fruitful earth, not selfishly, not for themselves alone.

It demanded of them the duty of multiplying in order that they and their children might be equipped to smite the enemies of their Queen and country, and uphold the name of England in whatever quarrel, against all who rashly sought to drag her flag in the dust.
The Squire opened his eyes and looked at his watch.

Folding his arms, he coughed, for he was thinking of the chaff-cutter.