A factory worker named Pete meets up with a former coworker named Mike. Mike left the company and now doesn't have much money. Pete offers to take Mike to coffee so they can catch up. Pete tells Mike that his wife is doing well and that he doesn't make much money with his job. Mike begins to talk about his life in the military. Mike went to the military before he worked at the factory. In the military, Mike explains, he never had to worry about money. Pete is surprised, and Mike elaborates, saying that money is meaningless in the army. Mike explains that one time he won a lot of money from gambling. However, in three days, he spent it all. Mike responds that all military people spend their money. Mike says that if one doesn't have money, they can ask. Mike tells Pete that one time in Paris, an officer asked to drink with Mike. Mike told the officer that he had no money, and the officer gave him 200 francs. Pete invites Mike to go to his house, and Pete declines. Mike goes back home and sees his wife. His wife hasn't left the house and appears to be sick. She asks how his day went, and he tells his wife about the fantastic benefits of the military. He then says that the military would probably take care of her if he applied to the army. However, his wife is distraught that her husband is interested in the military. She is also nervous since there is a war occurring, and she hates fighting. She begins to cry and he tries to comfort her as he realizes that he will never be able to convince his wife.