THE SHELL OF THE LOBSTER

pretty quickly, but while it is hardening the lobster
is vulnerable. What is his foreign policy at this
time? He goes and lives in a hole in a rock, avoids
every combat and waits until his armour is once
again strong enough to protect him. England,
owing to imprudent ministers, is at the moment
moulting. I and a few friends are working to restore
her shell, but it is still very soft. That is why we are
living in a hole. You may rest assured that it will
not be for long/

Since then, France, already with a solid shield of
concrete protecting one of her flanks, has covered
the other. The first spring sunshine has hardened
our shell. The lobster's policy has not been
altogether unsuccessful in our own case.

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