Page 198 - The Red Well-Read Reader

The Red Well-Read Reader

Story 357

A Dishonorable Refusal

The idler mused over whether to join the Navy, but refused

fearing his talents would be misused and his body abused.

He said, "Sergeant, your promise to travel the world is just

a ruse. Surely I would get an ocean cruise, but as to

where . . . I couldn't choose. Besides, Navy work is hard

and I wouldn't get my daily afternoon snooze, and I hate

G.I. 3.2 booze. And the Navy – having so many do's and

don'ts – might cause me to blow my fuse, start a fight and

even get a bruise. I'd seldom get any hometown news, and

before long I'd be singing the blues.

"Sorry, Sarge, but I am simply not a bit enthused. Find

someone with just half a brain to lose, someone who's just

dying to pay mortal dues !"

-178-