Look here, Uncle James, do you really think that you can
treat me like a boy who's just left school? Do you think four years
at the front have made no difference at all?
JAMES. If there had been any difference, I should have expected it
to take the form of an increased readiness in obey orders and
recognize authority.
PHILIP (regretfully). You are evidently determined to have a row.
Perhaps I had better tell you once and for all that I refuse to go
into the turnip and vegetable narrow business.
JAMES (thumping the table angrily). And perhaps I'd better tell
_you_, sir, once and for all, that I don't propose to allow rude
rudeness from an impertinent young puppy.
PHILIP (reminiscently). I remember annoying our Brigadier once. He
was covered with red, had a very red face, about twenty medals, and
a cold blue eye. He told me how angry he was for about five minutes
while I stood to attention. I'm afraid you aren't nearly
impressive, Uncle James.
JAMES (rather upset). Oh! (Recovering himself) Fortunately I have
other means of impressing you. The power of the purse goes a long
way in this world. I propose to use it.
PHILIP. I see. ... Yes ... that's rather awkward, isn't it?
JAMES (pleasantly). I think you'll find it very awkward.
PHILIP (thoughtfully). Yes.
(With an amused laugh JAMES settles down to his paper as if the
interview were over.
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