Hake. As a rule, sir. We like a little chat before going to bed.
Geoffrey. (His eyes on a letter.) What do you find to chat about?
Hake. Oh, there is so much for a husband and wife to talk about. The— As a rule.
(A clock on the mantelpiece strikes one.)
Geoffrey. What’s that?
Hake. Quarter past twelve, sir.
Geoffrey. Has your mistress come in?
Hake. Not yet, sir. Has the election gone all right, sir?
Geoffrey. For Mrs. Chilvers, yes. She is now member for East Poplar.
Hake. I am sorry. It has been a great surprise to me.