“I’ve been watching Germany,” started the English prime minister Herbert Asquith, clearing his throat, “And they seem to be up to something. Acting up, you could say. Something about this is fishy and I don’t like it.” He adjusted his lapel and stared into the faces of each of his men for a long time, scrutinizing their reactions.
“I, sir, am not quite sure what you mean by that,” mumbled one of the more lower ranked members of parliament. “Surely, Germany hasn’t been causing us trouble? I’d wager it’s just a bit of a... paranoia of yours, if I may.”
There was a ripple of murmuring from the men as they each glanced warily at the minister. A wave of red obscured his face. He raised his eyebrows and took three, calming breaths.
“You what? Mr. Johnson, if you’ll excuse my saying that I don’t quite think you have the place to say that to me. I am after all, to be respected, no?” without waiting for an answer, the Prime Minister continued his lecture. “As the greatest leader this country has ever seen, I shan’t agree to the fact that I have any sort of paranoia whatsoever. Are you following me, Mr. Johnson? I would be obliged if you did. Yes? Good. Now, no more from you,” snarled Asquith, running his hands through his soft white hair and leaning back in his chair.
“Mr. Asquith, sir, I could look into this matter for you if you wish me to. It would be my pleasure,” stuttered a small man with greasy black hair. Mr. Asquith leaned forward in his ornate brown leather chair, adjusting the spectacles that perched on his nose.
“McCarthy. I never do have to question your loyalty, do I?’’ chuckled the elderly man, his mood severely improved. “But I really do mean it, men, when I say that I am worried. For the sake of Her Highness Victoria and Great Britain. I really am concerned... I mean, if there was to be a war..” he trailed off, his red face paling.
“Don’t fret sir, I can assure you that that our country will be safe and sound.”
