If you asked why the post had not come, or why the boat did not sail for England, or why your coffee was cold, or why your boots were not cleaned, or why your window was shut, or why the canary didn't sing,-you would always be sure to be told, "c'est la guerre!
Louise Mack, A Woman's Experiences in the Great War: An Australian Author's Clandestine Journey Through War-Torn Belgium
humor, war, woman-s-character