THE ENVOY. I ask the august oracle to listen to my voice—
ZOO. You people seem never to tire of listening to your voices; but it doesn't amuse us. What do you want?
THE ENVOY. I want, young woman, to be allowed to proceed without unseemly interruptions.
A low roll of thunder comes from the abyss.
THE ELDERLY GENTLEMAN. There! Even the oracle is indignant. [To the Envoy] Do not allow yourself to be put down by this lady's rude clamor, Ambrose. Take no notice. Proceed.
THE ENVOY'S WIFE. I cant bear this much longer, Amby. Remember: I havn't had any brandy.
HIS DAUGHTER [trembling] There are serpents curling in the vapor. I am afraid of the lightning. Finish it, Papa; or I shall die.
THE ENVOY [sternly] Silence. The destiny of British civilization is at stake. Trust me. I am not afraid. As I was saying—where was I?
ZOO. I don't know. Does anybody?
THE ELDERLY GENTLEMAN [tactfully] You were just coming to the election, I think.