CHARLEY. Have you ever felt a desire to kick your hat into the fire? Have you?
PERCY. No! Not yet!
CHARLEY. Not yet. There you are—but you will. Don’t you ever want to see anything more of the world—did you ever have that feeling?
PERCY. [a little thoughtfully.] Well, I did once. I wanted to go out with Robinson. But the dad wouldn’t consent. It was a bit risky, you know, and this job came along—and so I wouldn’t go.
CHARLEY. Did Robinson come back?
PERCY. No, he’s got a decent little place out there.
CHARLEY. They don’t all fail, then?
PERCY. Of course not—but lots do. I might be one of those.
CHARLEY. Well, the thing is if you ever thought of doing anything now’s your time. You can’t do it afterwards. Take my tip and don’t get engaged yet. You’re too young to decide such an important question.
PERCY. No younger than you were—and I must say. . . .