I knew that that thought would keep saying itself over and over again in their minds and hearts, _All England is marching against us!_ and ever more strenuously imploring attention with each repetition, ever more sharply realizing itself to their imaginations, until even in their sleep they would find no rest from it, but hear the vague and flitting creatures of the dreams say, _All England_ -- ALL ENGLAND!--_is marching against you_! I knew all this would happen; I knew that ultimately the pressure would become so great that it would compel utterance; therefore, I must be ready with an answer at that time--an answer well chosen and tranquilizing.
I was right.

The time came.

They HAD to speak.

Poor lads, it was pitiful to see, they were so pale, so worn, so troubled.

At first their spokesman could hardly find voice or words; but he presently got both.