As the curtain rises the Second Waiter is placing the napkins under the supervision of the First Waiter. Waltz music is heard from the restaurant on the right.
Pringle's Voice.
[Outside door above arch, to unseen attendant.] "Entrance from the Embankment as well," eh? Well, why didn't you tell me that? My friends have probably come in that way while I was waiting at the other end! This is the "Pinafore" Room, isn't it? Very well, then—I expect I shall find them in here. [He enters, and looks round the room.] No. They don't seem to have arrived yet.
First Waiter.
[By the table.] Not yet. They vill be here soon.
[The Second Waiter goes out.
Pringle.
Eh? Well, I hope so, I'm sure. They're behind their time as it is. [Inspecting table.] H'm! Not bad. But you needn't have had all those roses—half a dozen would have been quite sufficient. And—hang it all! You've laid for six people!
First Waiter.
Pardon, m'sieu—we receive orders to lay for six person.