Janet. (Vivaciously.) Oh yes, it is. Somebody in this house must think about the future. (Cajolingly.) If this gentleman can show me five hundred pounds it's for sale. After all, it's my picture. And you can do me another one. I'd much sooner be done without the cooking-sleeves. (Entreating.) Albert!
Carve. (Shy, nervous, and tongue-tied.) Well!
Janet. (Endearingly.) That's right! That's all right!
Ebag. (Putting down notes.) If you will kindly count these—
Janet. (Taking the notes.) Nay, I'm too dizzy to count them. (As if giving up any attempt to realize the situation.) It fairly beats me! I never did understand this art business, and I never shall....(To Ebag.) Why are you so interested in my portrait? You've never seen me before.
Ebag. Madam, your portrait happens to be one of the very finest modern paintings I ever saw. (To Carve.) I have a picture here as to which I should like to ask your opinion. (Exposing picture.) I bought it ten years ago.
Carve. (After seeing picture.) Janet, would you mind leaving us a minute.
Janet. (Triumphant with her money.) Not a bit.
(Exit, L.)
Ebag. (Bowing to Janet. Then to Carve.) It's signed "Ilam Carve." Should you say it's a genuine Carve?