There was no answer. He had not expected one, for he read the truth on the face that had never lied. He stood very still for a brief moment, his head up--characteristically--his face a little pale. Both brothers! Then he breathed deeply and turned to his father in expectation. The latter knew what was wanted. "You are eighteen to-day, Boy. You may apply for your commission." There was a cry, quickly stifled, from the Mother, and the Boy said very quietly, "Thank you, Dad; of course I must go now." Then he went to his mother and kissed her and was not ashamed to cry. It was his father who broke the silence. "May God grant you many returns, many happy returns of the day!" * * * * * THE SORROWS OF WILSON. (_With humble apologies to THACKERAY._) WILSON had a love for Charlotte That impelled him to address her (Charlotte was a town, and WILSON Was a famous ex-Professor). So upon the War in Europe He delivered an oration, Darkly hinting at the problems Calling for elucidation. As reported in the papers, He discussed the situation With Olympian detachment And conspicuous moderation. But the wireless WOLFF discovered In his words a declaration Of his laudable intention To proceed to mediation. Thus the speech, which cost good WILSON Many hours of toil and trouble, From a sober cautious statement Turned into a Berlin bubble. Charlotte, having heard the lecture, Ignorant of what was brewing, Like a well-conducted city Went on innocently chewing. * * * * * "The water in the South-West Norfolk Fens has now subsided about 6 in. Two 6 ft. openings have been cut in the river bank near the Southery engine to let the water flow into the river. Two temporary slackers have been put in the openings, so that they can be closed when the tide is higher in the river." _Provincial Paper._ They might just as well have been put into the trenches. * * * * * [Illustration: _Orderly Officer._ "WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITHOUT YOUR RIFLE, SENTRY?" _Tommy._ "BEG PARDON, SIR, BUT I AIN'T THE SENTRY." _Orderly Officer._ "WHO ARE YOU, THEN, AND WHERE IS THE SENTRY?" _Tommy._ "OH, 'E'S INSIDE OUT OF THE RAIN. _I'M_ ONE OF THE PRISONERS."] * * * * * OUR BOOKING-OFFICE. (_By Mr. Punch's Staff of Learned Clerks._)