Jack: That’s it. I knew it was something like that. Do you want me to start on the other hand, now?
Mr. Wilson: No, that will do to begin with. I’m glad you’ve been keeping your ears and eyes open so well. Now, I hope you use your tongue to as good advantage. Since the only way to learn the shoe business is to stand firmly on your own feet, I’m going to let you get your first experience this afternoon in waiting on customers, by yourself. I will not interfere unless I see that you are going to lose a sale.
Jack [kicking over footrest]: Lose a sale? Not on your life! Just see me put it all over the dears until they’ll be tumbling over each other to buy. Leave it to your Uncle Dudley. [Fixes footrest and resumes former position.]
Mr. Wilson: Don’t be so sure, young man. There’s many a spill between the dollar and till and women are pernickety things to handle at any time. [Bell tinkles.] Here comes your first customer. Good luck. [Exit door L.]
Jack [cranes neck towards door R.]: If it isn’t Betty Moffat, the dearest thing in boots. [Jumps up hastily, overturning chair.] I’m going to sell her the peachiest shoes in the whole establishment, the little queen!
Enter Betty door R.
Betty: Why Jack, are you here? I didn’t even know you had started to work.
Jack [replaces chair]: Well, I like that! I’d like you to know that I have worked more or less all my young life.
Betty: Principally less. I’d imagine.
Jack [hits his head]: Did you say this was a slammy day? Well, I have started to work in earnest this afternoon for dad has given me the job of waiting on all the customers and you’re the first.