In this short scene, Dr. Bledsoe tells the audience that he and his men have sworn an oath to "save lives" and that they will do their best to do so. He tells them that they have taken an oath not to hurt or love anyone, and that in the end, it is all about perception. He warns them not to take this "mock battle" too seriously, as it will only serve to strengthen the alliance between the two countries. He reminds them that their own soldiers have told them how to lose the battle, and he asks them to trust him.