W. Pett Ridge

“ I like to see a man work for his living. Why, I often take up a book at home—my girls belong to Mudie's—take it up in the evening just to pass the time. Very well. What do I find? (Stirs tea and pauses. Junior, fearful of being caught, does not venture to reply.) I find there, sir (sips tea) —I find there a lot of nonsense about a lot of people, who in all probability never existed. The leaves of a book are of no more interest to me (looks round as though for illustration) than—er—the leaves of a tree. (Chuckles. Junior smiles generously.) ”

“ White pinafored waitresses flush with exertion; superior person at counter cuts scones and takes the cake. Young men who are in hurry to become Lord Mayors drink tea swiftly and silently; those who are not, talk. ”

“ Junior. Yes, sir, thank you. And I shan't forget that capital joke of yours about the leaves.
Senior (delighted) . Oh, nonsense, nonsense.
(Goes. Junior looks at mirror and winks at himself twice congratulatingly. Two Youthful Blades enter.) First Blade. The biggest old beano—two coffees, sweetest—biggest old beano I was ever mixed up in, in all my born days. Banks was there, and Banks can shift the liquor, mind you.
Second Blade (approvingly) . Banks is a treat. ”