Trelawny of The "Wells": A Comedietta in Four Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

Ablett.

Good-day, Mrs. Mossop.

Mrs. Mossop.

[Bringing the cruet-stands.] I declare I thought you'd forgotten me.

Ablett.

[Hanging his coat upon a curtain-knob, and turning up his shirt sleeves.] I'd begun to fear I should never escape from the shop, ma'am. Jest as I was preparin' to clean myself, the 'ole universe seemed to cry aloud for pertaters. [Relieving Mrs. Mossop of the cruet-stands, and satisfying himself as to the contents of the various bottles.] Now you take a seat, Mrs. Mossop. You 'ave but to say "Mr. Ablett, lay for so many," and the exact number shall be laid for.

Mrs. Mossop.

[Sinking into the armchair.] I hope the affliction of short breath may be spared you, Ablett. Ten is the number.

Ablett.

[Whipping up the mustard energetically.] Short-breathed you may be, ma'am, but not short-sighted. That gal of yours is no ordinary gal, but to 'ave set 'er to wait on ten persons would 'ave been to 'ave caught disaster. [Bringing knives and forks, glass, etc., and glancing round the room as he does so.] I am in Mr. and Mrs. Telfer's setting-room, I believe, ma'am?