GILBEY. He knows that. [He sits down. Then, to Juggins] What is it?
JUGGINS. [advancing to the middle of the table] Would it inconvenience you, sir, if I was to give you a month's notice?
GILBEY. [taken aback] What! Why? Aint you satisfied?
JUGGINS. Perfectly, sir. It is not that I want to better myself, I assure you.
GILBEY. Well, what do you want to leave for, then? Do you want to worse yourself?
JUGGINS. No, sir. Ive been well treated in your most comfortable establishment; and I should be greatly distressed if you or Mrs Gilbey were to interpret my notice as an expression of dissatisfaction.
GILBEY. [paternally] Now you listen to me, Juggins. I'm an older man than you. Dont you throw out dirty water til you get in fresh. Dont get too big for your boots. Youre like all servants nowadays: you think youve only to hold up your finger to get the pick of half a dozen jobs. But you wont be treated everywhere as youre treated here. In bed every night before eleven; hardly a ring at the door except on Mrs Gilbey's day once a month; and no other manservant to interfere with you. It may be a bit quiet perhaps; but youre past the age of adventure. Take my advice: think over it. You suit me; and I'm prepared to make it suit you if youre dissatisfied—in reason, you know.
JUGGINS. I realize my advantages, sir; but Ive private reasons—
GILBEY. [cutting him short angrily and retiring to the hearthrug in dudgeon] Oh, I know. Very well: go. The sooner the better.
MRS GILBEY. Oh, not until we're suited. He must stay his month.